New Jersey Governor's Race: Democrat Mikie Sherrill Ekes Out Victory Over Jack Ciattarelli in Tight Contest
In a closely contested governor's race, Democrat Mikie Sherrill has emerged as the winner of New Jersey's election, according to CBS News projections. Sherrill, a U.S. Representative and former Naval helicopter pilot, defeated Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli by a narrow margin.
The campaign between the two candidates took a personal turn at times, with Ciattarelli threatening to sue Sherrill over claims she made about his business in their second debate. In September, a branch of the National Archives released Sherrill's mostly unredacted military records, which included her social security number, sparking controversy.
The election was marked by high stakes, particularly when it came to affordability. Both candidates emphasized the need to address high property taxes, with Sherrill pledging to increase the first-time home buyers' program and make housing more accessible for families. Ciattarelli, on the other hand, positioned himself as a conservative alternative, despite receiving endorsements from President Trump.
Sherrill's campaign was bolstered by appearances by former President Barack Obama and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro in the final days of the campaign. Meanwhile, Ad Impact projected that ad spending on the race would total around $140 million, one of the most expensive governor's races in U.S. history.
Throughout her campaign, Sherrill highlighted her unique blend of military experience and legislative background, touting herself as a pragmatist who could bring people together to address New Jersey's challenges. As a mom of four, she emphasized her commitment to creating opportunities for families.
With the election now over, Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat term-limited from the position, will be succeeded by Sherrill. The Democratic victory comes in an off-year election, where voter turnout and enthusiasm were seen as crucial factors in determining the outcome.
In a closely contested governor's race, Democrat Mikie Sherrill has emerged as the winner of New Jersey's election, according to CBS News projections. Sherrill, a U.S. Representative and former Naval helicopter pilot, defeated Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli by a narrow margin.
The campaign between the two candidates took a personal turn at times, with Ciattarelli threatening to sue Sherrill over claims she made about his business in their second debate. In September, a branch of the National Archives released Sherrill's mostly unredacted military records, which included her social security number, sparking controversy.
The election was marked by high stakes, particularly when it came to affordability. Both candidates emphasized the need to address high property taxes, with Sherrill pledging to increase the first-time home buyers' program and make housing more accessible for families. Ciattarelli, on the other hand, positioned himself as a conservative alternative, despite receiving endorsements from President Trump.
Sherrill's campaign was bolstered by appearances by former President Barack Obama and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro in the final days of the campaign. Meanwhile, Ad Impact projected that ad spending on the race would total around $140 million, one of the most expensive governor's races in U.S. history.
Throughout her campaign, Sherrill highlighted her unique blend of military experience and legislative background, touting herself as a pragmatist who could bring people together to address New Jersey's challenges. As a mom of four, she emphasized her commitment to creating opportunities for families.
With the election now over, Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat term-limited from the position, will be succeeded by Sherrill. The Democratic victory comes in an off-year election, where voter turnout and enthusiasm were seen as crucial factors in determining the outcome.