Polling and Race Status

Recent polls indicate a tightening race:

• Emerson College Poll (Sept 25, 2025): Sherrill and Ciattarelli are tied at 43% each, with 11% undecided.

• Quinnipiac University Poll (Sept 17, 2025): Sherrill leads with 49% to Ciattarelli’s 41%.

These results suggest a highly competitive race, with fluctuating support for both candidates.

Naval Academy Cheating Scandal

In 1994, Sherrill was barred from participating in her U.S. Naval Academy graduation ceremony due to a widespread cheating scandal involving over 130 midshipmen. She stated that her punishment resulted from her refusal to report classmates involved in the incident. This disclosure has resurfaced during her gubernatorial campaign, prompting scrutiny from political opponents.

Release of Military Records

In late September 2025, Sherrill’s unredacted military records, including sensitive personal information, were mistakenly released to Nicholas De Gregorio, a Marine veteran and ally of Ciattarelli. Sherrill has accused the Trump administration and Ciattarelli’s campaign of orchestrating a politically motivated attack. The National Archives has acknowledged the error and launched an investigation into the improper release.

Nepotism Allegations

Sherrill faces accusations of nepotism after two of her children were accepted into the U.S. Naval Academy. Her office has denied that she nominated her children for the appointments, stating that the selections were made independently. Nonetheless, the allegations have become a point of contention in the race.

Voter Support and Endorsements

Democratic leaders have expressed concern over waning support among key constituencies:

• Labor Unions: Some union members are leaning toward the GOP, with Ciattarelli securing endorsements from groups like the Fraternal Order of Police.

• Black Voters: Sherrill has intensified outreach efforts, including selecting Rev. Dale Caldwell as her running mate, but skepticism remains among voters demanding specific policy commitments.

Sherrill has received endorsements from organizations such as the Teamsters Joint Council 53 and the New Jersey Citizen Action Political Action Committee.

Media Endorsements

The New York Post has endorsed Ciattarelli, criticizing Sherrill’s policy proposals and labeling her as a “hack.”

The New Jersey gubernatorial race is highly competitive, with both candidates facing challenges that could influence the outcome. Sherrill’s campaign has been affected by controversies related to her past, while Ciattarelli has gained momentum through strategic endorsements and campaign efforts. The final weeks leading up to the election will be crucial in determining the state’s political direction.