Democrats Take Note: What's Happening in New Jersey Holds Lessons for the Party

Strategic Insights -

As the Democratic Party seeks to regain momentum, New Jersey's primary elections offer a cautionary tale and a potential template for success. Incumbent Governor Phil Murphy's term-limited tenure has set the stage for a contentious gubernatorial race between Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D) and Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli. The Democratic primary saw a surge in voter turnout, with over 800,000 people casting ballots – a record for a New Jersey primary. Sherrill's moderate platform, which includes making life in New Jersey more affordable, has resonated with voters.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D) won the Democratic primary for governor in a landslide victory, garnering over 800,000 votes.
  • Sherrill's campaign has focused on making life in New Jersey more affordable and protecting rights and freedoms, contradicting advice from some to focus solely on kitchen table issues.
  • The surge in Democratic turnout in the primary is a significant contrast to the 2020 presidential election, where Democratic participation was low.
  • Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican nominee, was endorsed by Donald Trump and has shifted his stance on the 2020 election, contradicting his 2015 characterization of Trump as a "charlatan".
  • Sherrill's background as a former federal prosecutor, U.S. Naval Academy graduate, and helicopter pilot in Europe and the Middle East has garnered attention, with some seeing her as a rare talent among politicians.

Statistics:

  • Over 800,000 people voted in the New Jersey Democratic primary, a record for a state primary.
  • Donald Trump lost New Jersey by 16 points in the 2020 presidential election, but came within six points of winning the state in 2016.
  • Phil Murphy has been New Jersey's governor since January 2018 and is term-limited.
  • The 2023 New Jersey gubernatorial election will be a bellwether for national politics, as it is one of two states that hold their gubernatorial contests in the year following presidential elections.

Sources:

  • [Tumulty, K. (2022, June 15). Democrats Take Note: What's Happening in New Jersey Holds Lessons for the Party. The Washington Post.]
  • [ABC News. (2022, June 7). New Jersey primary election results: live].