New Jersey Gubernatorial Race: Jack Ciattarelli's Police Endorsement and Immigration Policy Stance

Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican candidate for governor of New Jersey, received a significant boost in his campaign with the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), representing approximately 13,000 officers. This unanimous decision, made during a lengthy meeting, aims to alleviate concerns regarding Ciattarelli's past critical remarks about law enforcement. James Troisi, a retired lieutenant from the Essex County Department of Corrections, stated that the union felt Ciattarelli was "the most responsive to our needs." Prior to this endorsement, major police unions had refrained from endorsing either candidate in the race.

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Ciattarelli's previous comments, made during his tenure in the State Assembly, have haunted his campaign. In 2014, he suggested that police officers were "more than well-paid" and compared their risks to those in other professions. These statements resurfaced during the campaign, raising questions about his commitment to law enforcement. In response, Ciattarelli has emphasized his support for police, including a pledge to repeal the Immigrant Trust Directive, which limits local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration officials. His choice of Jim Gannon, the Morris County sheriff, as his running mate is seen as a strategic move to solidify his support among law enforcement.

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Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill has criticized Ciattarelli for his lack of law enforcement experience, asserting, "Jack has never served in law enforcement. He’s never served to keep this country safe." Sheriff Pete Corvelli expressed concerns about Ciattarelli's past statements, arguing that they could hinder police recruitment efforts. Additionally, Eddie Donnelly, president of the statewide firefighters’ union, voiced apprehension about Ciattarelli's overall support for labor unions, suggesting that his past comments indicate a lack of commitment to their interests.

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Ciattarelli has made immigration a focal point of his campaign, vowing to rescind the Immigrant Trust Directive on his first day in office. This directive, established in 2018, restricts local law enforcement's ability to assist federal immigration agents. In contrast, Sherrill has been less definitive about her stance on the directive, leading to frustration among immigrant advocates. Ashley Koning, director of the Eagleton-Rutgers poll, noted that immigration is a significant issue for Republican voters in New Jersey, while Democrats prioritize other topics.

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Ciattarelli expressed gratitude for the FOP's endorsement, stating he was "honored to have the faith, trust and confidence" of the union. He emphasized the need to restore respect for law enforcement and pledged to support the men and women in blue. In contrast, Sherrill has refrained from making explicit commitments regarding the Immigrant Trust Directive, focusing instead on broader themes of law and order.

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While Ciattarelli has garnered support from some police unions, the State Troopers Fraternal Association and the New Jersey Policemen’s Benevolent Association have not endorsed him, indicating a divide within law enforcement regarding his candidacy. Additionally, Sherrill's shifting comments on immigration policy have left some advocates uncertain about her position.

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• “We felt that he was the most responsive to our needs,” — James Troisi, FOP Executive Board Member

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• “Jack has never served in law enforcement. He’s never served to keep this country safe. I have, and I’ll continue to do that.” — Mikie Sherrill, Democratic Candidate for Governor

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• “His moral compass just does not point in the direction of labor,” — Eddie Donnelly, President of the Firefighters Union

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• “Executive order No. 1 is ‘no sanctuary cities,’ and we will not be a sanctuary state,” — Jack Ciattarelli, Republican Candidate for Governor

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As the election approaches, Ciattarelli's ability to navigate these endorsements and criticisms will be crucial in shaping the outcome of the gubernatorial race in New Jersey.

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