New Jersey Primary Election Polls Now Open: See Governor Candidates, Other Races, Where to Vote

New Jersey voters are casting ballots in the state’s primary elections for governor today, which include candidates from both major parties. The race is especially significant as it is one of only two gubernatorial contests this year, amidst various local and national issues. Democrats face a crowded field, while Republicans are rallying behind Trump’s endorsed candidate, Jack Ciattarelli. Polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and early voting options have been available.

Today, New Jersey voters are heading to the polls for the primary elections, which will determine the candidates for governor in both the Democratic and Republican parties. This election has the potential to mirror the public’s sentiments towards President Donald Trump’s policies and indicate how Democratic voters want to respond. Notably, New Jersey and Virginia stand out as the only states with gubernatorial races this year, intensifying the competition as two-term Democratic Governor Phil Murphy is term-limited and has not endorsed a successor in this primary.

The Democratic primary features a crowded field of politicians vying for the nomination. Key candidates include U.S. Representatives Josh Gottheimer and Mikie Sherrill, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, and former Senate President Steve Sweeney, among others. Gottheimer is leading in fundraising efforts with approximately $9.1 million, just edging out Sherrill and Fulop, who each raised about $8.9 million. Polls suggest Sherrill may have a narrow lead, which makes this race particularly interesting.

On the Republican side, former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli is back in the spotlight, making his third attempt for the governor’s mansion after a close call in the 2021 election. He’s up against notable candidates like state Senator Jon Bramnick and former Englewood Cliffs Mayor Mario Kranjac. Notably, Trump’s endorsement of Ciattarelli is a significant factor in this primary, especially given that many candidates have aligned themselves with his agenda. Ciattarelli has openly opposed certain state immigration policies, which could resonate with the Republican base.

Polling places in the state are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. today, but voting isn’t just limited to this election day. Earlier in-person voting was available from June 3 to June 8, and mail-in ballots have been distributed since April. For many voters, local New Jersey issues like high property taxes and living costs are top of mind, but broader national politics are likely to play a substantial role as well. Republicans see an opportunity to capitalize on any perceived Democratic weaknesses as they gear up for the general election.

Looking at the broader electoral landscape, all 80 General Assembly seats are on the ballot this year, but only about 25 districts will see contested races. Meanwhile, the state Senate races will remain untouched until 2027. While Democrats hold a majority, Republicans are hoping for a strong performance in this year’s gubernatorial election. Historical trends show that New Jersey’s odd-year governor’s races tend to be competitive.

As voters head to the polls, both parties are acutely aware of the stakes involved. For Democrats, losing the governorship would exacerbate challenges following recent electoral defeats. On the other hand, Republicans are betting on securing the seat to solidify Trump’s influence in New Jersey. With a growing registered voter base and mounting challenges for incumbents, today’s results could shape the political landscape for years to come.

In summary, with New Jersey’s primary elections in full swing today, voters are making critical choices that could influence both local and national political dynamics. The open governor’s seat has drawn multiple candidates and intense competition from both Democratic and Republican parties. As issues like immigration and economic concerns dominate voter sentiment, the outcomes of these primaries could signal future electoral trends as candidates prepare for the general election.

Original Source: www.nbcnewyork.com