LAKEWOOD, N.J. — In a historic first, all Jewish councils representing communities in and around Lakewood, New Jersey, have unanimously endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli for governor, marking a significant departure from their traditional support for Democratic candidates. The endorsement, announced Friday, includes councils from Lakewood, Toms River, Jackson, Howell, and Manchester, representing a combined voter base of approximately 65,000.
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The unified backing of Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman and 2021 gubernatorial candidate, is expected to significantly boost Republican turnout in the region. Lakewood, a major hub for New Jersey’s Orthodox Jewish community, has historically leaned Democratic, making this shift a notable development in the state’s closely watched gubernatorial race.
“Jack Ciattarelli has demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to our communities, from economic opportunity to religious freedom and public safety,” the councils said in a joint statement. “We believe he is the leader New Jersey needs to move forward.”
Ciattarelli expressed gratitude for the endorsement, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the concerns of Lakewood and surrounding areas. “I am honored to receive the support of these influential councils,” Ciattarelli said. “Their trust reflects my dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive New Jersey for all residents.”
Political analysts suggest the endorsement could reshape voter dynamics in Ocean County, a key battleground in the gubernatorial election. With Lakewood’s growing population and high voter engagement, the councils’ support is seen as a potential game-changer for Ciattarelli’s campaign.
The announcement comes as Ciattarelli faces a competitive race against his Democratic opponent. The Jewish councils’ decision to break with tradition highlights shifting priorities among voters focused on issues like education, taxes, and community safety.
The election is set for November 4, 2025. Early voting has already begun, and campaigns are intensifying efforts to mobilize supporters across the state.
Let’s pray that Jack wins!
It was very hard for the vaad to get comfortable endorsing a Republican
Mikie Sherrill hasn’t done anything (besides for a last minute short stopover) to court the Lakewood vote. She didn’t visit Lakewood during the primary and visited for the first time last week (after the news broke that the Vaad will be endorsing Jack).
Mikie ignored Lakewood, and she deserves to be ignored.
they realized people will vote jack anyway so might as well claim they listened to us. when will aguda support a Republican? in NYC FJCC the are backing killer cuomo over sliwa
Probably learned that citarelli voted for assisted suicide so they figured a rotzeach is evil enough that no one would have a hava mina they care about god and his torah