Summary
There is a close race for New Jersey governor between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli. Polls show Sherrill has a slight lead, especially among young voters who are often Democrats but have shown signs of shifting their support. The race is particularly significant as it may indicate trends for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
Key Facts
- Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat, and Jack Ciattarelli, a Republican, are competing for New Jersey governor.
- Polls indicate that Sherrill has a small lead over Ciattarelli among voters, especially those under 30.
- In a Fox News poll, 60% of voters under 30 supported Sherrill, while 33% supported Ciattarelli.
- A co/efficient poll showed Sherrill leading voters aged 18 to 34 by 26 points.
- Emerson College’s poll found Sherrill leading voters aged 18 to 29 by 38 points.
- A Rutgers University poll showed a tighter race, with Sherrill leading by only six points among Gen Z voters.
- Gen Z shifted slightly rightward in recent elections, and their turnout can strongly impact election results.
- In 2020, Gen Z had a 67% turnout rate in New Jersey, but this dropped to 54% in 2024.
