New Jersey Primary Election Day 2025: Key Outcomes and Implications
On June 10, 2025, New Jersey held its primary elections, determining the major party nominees for the upcoming gubernatorial race and state assembly seats. This election is particularly significant as it sets the stage for the November 4 general election, which will decide the state's next governor and all 80 members of the General Assembly.
Gubernatorial Primary Results
Democratic Primary
In the Democratic primary, six candidates vied for the nomination to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy. U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill emerged as the frontrunner, securing 35% of the vote. Her campaign focused on affordability and electability, positioning her as a centrist alternative in a field that included progressive figures like Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop. The absence of the traditional "county line" ballot design, which previously favored party insiders, made this primary more competitive and unpredictable .
Republican Primary
On the Republican side, former State Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli clinched the nomination with 67% of the vote, dominating all 21 counties. His victory was bolstered by an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, aligning him closely with the MAGA movement. Ciattarelli's platform emphasized conservative priorities such as reducing property and income taxes and cracking down on sanctuary cities .
State Assembly Primary Highlights
The primary elections also determined the nominees for all 80 seats in the New Jersey General Assembly. This year saw a record number of candidates vying for assembly positions, reflecting heightened political engagement and competition across the state. The outcomes of these primaries will influence the legislative balance and set the tone for the general election in November.
Voter Turnout and Participation
Voter turnout on June 10 was notably high, with early voting and mail-in ballots contributing to the robust participation. In-person voting took place from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and voters had the option to cast their ballots early or by mail, ensuring broader access to the electoral process .
Looking Ahead: November 4 General Election
The general election on November 4, 2025, will feature Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli as the gubernatorial nominees. This election is anticipated to be highly competitive, serving as a potential referendum on President Trump's second term and offering insights into the political landscape ahead of the 2026 midterm elections .
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| General Election Day | November 4, 2025 |
| Voter Registration Deadline | October 14, 2025 |
| Early Voting Period | October 25–November 2, 2025 |
How to Vote
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In-Person Voting: Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.
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Early Voting: Available from October 25 to November 2 at designated locations.
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Vote-by-Mail: Applications must be submitted by October 14, and ballots should be returned promptly.
Summary of Primary Election Results
| Party | Candidate | Vote Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Democratic | Mikie Sherrill | 35% |
| Republican | Jack Ciattarelli | 67% |
These results set the stage for a pivotal general election in November, with both parties aiming to secure the governorship and influence the direction of the state's policies.
Conclusion
The June 10 primary elections in New Jersey have significantly shaped the political landscape, with Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli emerging as the major party nominees for governor. As the state prepares for the general election on November 4, all eyes will be on New Jersey to gauge voter sentiment and the potential implications for national politics.
