Former Union County Democratic Assemblyman Jamel Holley endorsed Republican Candidate Jack Ciattarelli for New Jersey Governor. The endorsement, made on X on Sunday, June 29th, is the first democratic endorsement Ciattarelli has received with Holley crossing party lines saying, “This is the right way forward New Jersey.”
Holley further hunkered down in another social media post, stating, “I’m here to unite with Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, and all New Jerseyans in a shared commitment to citizenship and progress. There’s no need for divisive debates or cultural wars. The facts about New Jersey’s challenges are clear. My proven record on social justice stands as evidence of my dedication. Let’s come together to build the better New Jersey we all deserve—a stronger, more inclusive state for everyone! PERIOD!”
Holley served as the Mayor of Roselle from 2012-2015 before being elected to the New Jersey General Assembly in 2015, serving the 20th Legislative District for 7 years as the first Black lawmaker from the 20th District.
During his tenure, Holley crossed the aisle often, working with Republicans on a variety of issues including criminal justice and economic development. He was also a public critic of vaccine mandates, which has aligned him with United States Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr–to which he is a close friend and an advisor.
In another cross-party endorsement, Former two-term Republican Governor Christine Todd Whitman–the only woman to have served as governor of New Jersey– endorsed Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill.
Union endorsements have been steadily rolling out since the June 10th primary, with Ciattarelli getting an endorsement from The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825–who previously supported Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in both races including the 2021 election against Ciattarelli. Sherrill received an endorsement from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees New Jersey Council 63.
Notably, Ciattarelli, former NJ Assemblyman for the 16th District, has received President Donald Trump’s endorsement, with many anticipating a close race on November 4th. Time will tell whether New Jersey will flip red for its gubernatorial elections.
