Trump Endorses Former Critic Ciattarelli in New Jersey Gubernatorial Race

Former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Jack Ciattarelli in the race for New Jersey governor, marking a significant turn in their relationship. Ciattarelli, who once sharply criticized Trump, is now being touted as the "terrific America First Candidate" the state needs, according to Trump’s endorsement on Truth Social.

"Jack Ciattarelli is a terrific America First Candidate running to be the next Governor of a State that I love, NEW JERSEY!" Trump declared. He further elaborated that Ciattarelli has gone "ALL IN" and pledged to collaborate closely with a potential Trump administration on key policy areas. These include stimulating economic growth, reducing taxes and regulations, strengthening border security, curbing migrant crime, supporting veterans, and promoting American energy independence.

Trump also emphasized Ciattarelli’s ability to stand firm against the "Radical Left Democrats" and secure a "Big Victory" in the upcoming gubernatorial election. The former president framed the election as a crucial battleground against "WOKE" ideologies, stating, "This Election is being closely watched by the entire World because we are ending WOKE, and all of the other NONSENSE that goes along with it, AND NOBODY WANTS TO SEE IT COME BACK!"

Ciattarelli, seemingly embracing Trump’s endorsement, responded on X, expressing his gratitude. "I am truly humbled and honored to receive President Trump’s very strong endorsement today. It’s time to unite our party, win big in November, and make New Jersey affordable and safe again," Ciattarelli wrote, concluding with, "When I am Governor, we will."

The endorsement signifies a remarkable shift in the dynamic between Trump and Ciattarelli. In 2015, Ciattarelli was a vocal critic, even labeling Trump a "charlatan" and deeming him "not fit to be President of the United States." However, Ciattarelli appears to have softened his stance over time. He was observed at Trump’s Wildwood, New Jersey, rally in 2020, shaking hands and interacting with attendees.

Ciattarelli’s political profile has risen considerably. In the 2021 gubernatorial election, he came within a narrow three-point margin of unseating Democratic incumbent Governor Phil Murphy, demonstrating his growing appeal among New Jersey voters.

Now, Ciattarelli faces a primary challenge from Bill Spadea, a conservative radio host, and State Senator Jon Bramnick in the Republican primary scheduled for June 10.

Spadea responded to Trump’s endorsement of Ciattarelli with a critical statement to Fox News Digital. "Donald Trump’s endorsement comes after a years long effort by Jack to lie about his own record," Spadea said. "My resolve to fight for the people of New Jersey has never been greater. I intend to continue fighting for the America First agenda because that is what’s best for the state and our nation."

The New Jersey Democratic Governors Association (DGA) also weighed in on the endorsement, painting Ciattarelli as a Trump loyalist. "This endorsement just confirms what we already knew: Jack Ciattarelli would put Donald Trump before New Jersey," said DGA Communications Director Sam Newton. "As Governor, Ciattarelli would bring Trump’s agenda of higher costs and chaos to Trenton – instead of fighting to protect New Jersey’s freedoms and working to make life more affordable."

The endorsement arrives against a backdrop of heightened political tensions in New Jersey, as highlighted by recent incidents involving protests and arrests related to immigration enforcement.

This endorsement adds a new layer of intrigue to the New Jersey gubernatorial race. It raises questions about the extent to which Ciattarelli will embrace Trump’s policies and rhetoric, and how this alliance will resonate with voters across the political spectrum. The primary election will serve as a crucial test of Ciattarelli’s support within the Republican party, while the general election will determine whether he can successfully bridge the divide between Trump’s base and more moderate voters in the state. The race promises to be a closely watched contest with national implications.