Republican Jack Ciattarelli, a lifelong New Jersey resident and successful entrepreneur, spent decades as a faithful GOP moderate in the mold of Tom Kean Sr. and Christie Whitman. Running for governor of Blue Jersey in an era of political anxiety, he’s focused less on MAGA and more on kitchen-table issues like property taxes and the Garden State’s high cost of living.
In November, voters will decide whether Jack Ciattarelli or Democrat Mikie Sherrill should succeed Phil Murphy and become New Jersey’s 57th governor. New Jersey Monthly, in an effort to help voters make an informed choice, questioned both candidates on some burning Garden State issues, as well as some lighter matters.
NJM: If your opponent is elected, what will New Jersey look like in four years from now?
Jack Ciattarelli: More unaffordable than it is today. She represents the status quo, and our state is headed in the wrong direction right now on many fronts.
What group of Jerseyans will benefit most?
The powerful special interests who control Trenton. That’s why they are funding her campaign.
Who will be hurt most?
The students locked into failing school systems.
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If you are elected, will you fight for the right of New Jerseyans to pump their own gas?
No.
Can you name one thing Donald Trump has done wrong for New Jersey?
I don’t agree with the Administration’s current proposal to eliminate jobs at Picatinny Arsenal in Morris County and have made that opposition clear. As governor, I will work with this president (and future ones) when they are right on issues important to New Jersey, while also have a productive working relationship that allows me to effectively fight on New Jersey’s behalf when the Administration gets it wrong.
What’s your Wawa order?
An Italian sub.
What’s the first thing you will do as governor to make New Jersey more affordable?
Lowering electricity bills by leveraging natural gas and nuclear power and lowering property taxes with a new school funding formula.
Who is to blame for the high cost of living in this state?
The Democrats have controlled the legislature for 25 years and the executive branch for the past eight years. Under their watch taxes, tolls, out of control spending, an irrational energy plan and rising electricity costs, and the failed school funding formula are the primary reasons for our high cost of living in New Jersey.
Where is your favorite place to relax and spend time in New Jersey?
Surf City on Long Beach Island.
What’s the most repeated song on your playlist?
Frank Sinatra version of “Fly Me to the Moon.”
Can you remember your first concert?
Billy Joel and Elton John at Giants Stadium.
Your last concert?
Billy Joel and Elton John at Giants Stadium.
Why don’t people trust politicians?
Because far too many are only worried about being reelected and using their office to enrich themselves.
Are there any concrete steps you would take to reduce the influence of political party bosses in Trenton?
Enact term limits for state legislators.
Can you name a book of fiction you read the past year?
I don’t usually read fiction, mostly biographies.
If you had to choose a cartoon character as running mate, who would it be and why?
Road Runner. He knows how to run. Beep beep!
Party: Republican
Lives in: Hillsborough
Political position: Former state Assembly member
Pre-political life: CPA and businessman
On day one: Ciattarelli has promised to get rid of the Immigrant Trust Directive, eliminating New Jersey’s sanctuary cities for undocumented immigrants.
Editor’s Note: These conversations have been edited and condensed for clarity. Both candidates were given an equal opportunity to respond to the same set of questions.
Jeff Pillets is a freelance writer living in Trenton who has covered New Jersey for more than 25 years.
