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“When I’m governor, New Jersey will stand in solidarity with Israel,” Ciattarelli said, emphasizing that Israel has the right to defend itself and do whatever it takes to rid the region of terrorists.
By United with Israel Staff
In an unprecedented move in New Jersey politics, Orthodox Jewish leaders across Ocean County have thrown their support behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, forming a powerful faith-based voting coalition that could play a decisive role in the election.
The endorsement, first reported by The Lakewood Scoop, was announced collectively by councils representing Lakewood, Jackson, Toms River, Howell, and Manchester. Leaders said the effort reflects a focus on turnout and shared priorities, emphasizing that every vote matters.
“Every single vote in every single town is critical in this election,” they said. “Together we share a larger responsibility – turning out every possible vote. Let’s make sure our communities are heard loud and clear at the ballot box.”
Ciattarelli’s connection with the Jewish community extends beyond New Jersey.
This past summer, he traveled to Israel, meeting with government officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and visiting sites affected by the October 7 attacks.
He toured Yad Vashem, the Western Wall tunnels, and Kibbutz Be’eri, witnessing firsthand the aftermath of the brutal Hamas assault.
In interviews with Mishpacha Magazine and The Philadelphia Inquirer, Ciattarelli emphasized Israel’s right to defend itself and his commitment to standing with the Jewish community.
He told Mishpacha, “I support Israel in doing whatever it has to do to rid the region of terrorists,” and in The Philadelphia Inquirer, he added, “Israel, as a state, has every right to defend itself and every right to protect its citizens.”
Since October 7, 2023, Jews in New Jersey—the state with the second-largest Jewish population in the U.S.—have faced a surge in antisemitism.
According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), antisemitic incidents statewide reached a record 830 cases in 2023, marking the highest total ever in New Jersey.
Lakewood, with its large Orthodox population, is widely regarded as a key battleground. The consolidated backing from councils across multiple towns enhances Ciattarelli’s advantage, potentially translating into substantial voter support across Ocean County.
With Election Day just days away, the New Jersey governor’s race remains extremely close between Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill, highlighting the potential impact of the Orthodox Jewish vote in the tightly contested statewide race.
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