‘Ready for Change’: Poll Reveals Front-Runner for Governor

Rep. Mikie Sherrill at town hall event

A Fairleigh Dickinson University poll has revealed that Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) is leading Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the New Jersey gubernatorial race. She has secured 45% support, while Ciattarelli has held 37%, with 16% of voters remaining undecided. Analysts noted that the lead has positioned Sherrill strongly approaching the upcoming election.

Jack Ciattarelli addresses supporters after election

Poll director Dan Cassino stated that a nationalized race harms Ciattarelli’s chances. He stressed the need to consolidate Trump supporters without alienating moderates.

Donald Trump speaking at AmVets convention

Sherrill’s strategy linking Ciattarelli to Trump has appeared effective, as Trump has seen record low approval ratings in New Jersey. Cassino said, While Republicans have been narrowing the gap, there are still more Democrats than Republicans in the state, and Ciattarelli needs to start pulling in more independents and Democrats if he wants to win.

Cassino added, Unless something goes horribly awry, partisans are going to vote for their party's candidate. While Republicans have been narrowing the gap, there are still more Democrats than Republicans in the state, and Ciattarelli needs to start pulling in more independents and Democrats if he wants to win.

Jack Ciattarelli speaking to supporters after primary win

The Fairleigh Dickinson poll shows Ciattarelli gained 7% support among independents when focusing on local issues, but lost 4% when national politics were raised.

Editorial meeting with Rep. Mikie Sherrill

Ciattarelli’s campaign has warned against an overreliance on polls, citing past inconsistencies. Despite a Rutgers-Eagleton poll showing Sherrill leading by 20 points, Republicans believe they can win back voters who have shifted.

Mikie Sherrill giving speech after primary victory

Ciattarelli's campaign spokesperson stated, The wild inconsistencies of these university-based public polls, which were all dead wrong four years ago, speak for themselves. Since the start of the general election, this has been a margin-of-error race.

Anthony Bucco Jr. and Jack Ciattarelli at parade

The spokesperson added, "If it wasn't, entrenched special interests wouldn't be lying on Sherrill's behalf or investing millions in her campaign."

The spokesperson concluded, "One thing is for sure, the people of New Jersey are ready for change and that's exactly what Jack will deliver as governor."

John Baker covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.