Ciattarelli Criticizes Sherrill’s ‘Desperate’ Strategy as Obama Joins Campaign

New Jersey Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli condemned Democrat Mikie Sherrill’s decision to involve former President Barack Obama in her campaign, calling it “another desperate tactic by a desperate campaign on behalf of a desperate candidate.” Speaking on “Rob Schmitt Tonight,” Ciattarelli argued that Sherrill’s efforts are faltering among key Democratic voters.

He highlighted concerns about declining support among Black New Jerseyans, noting that the Sherrill campaign had to relocate an event due to low turnout. Ciattarelli emphasized his own campaign’s strong grassroots momentum, claiming it has received “overwhelmingly positive” responses in minority communities traditionally seen as Democratic strongholds.

The inclusion of Obama in Sherrill’s final push comes amid tight polling and early voting data suggesting diminished Democrat enthusiasm compared to 2021 levels. A Monmouth University poll released Monday showed Sherrill’s lead within the margin of error, reflecting a narrowing race. Ciattarelli reiterated his confidence in minority support, stating, “Every time I’ve been there, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.”