In a Stunning Political Turn, All Lakewood Jewish Councils Unite to Endorse Jack Ciattarelli for New Jersey Governor — Breaking Decades of Democratic Loyalty
In what political observers are calling one of the most consequential endorsements in New Jersey’s 2025 gubernatorial race, Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli has secured the unified backing of Lakewood’s influential Jewish councils — a dramatic shift in a community that has historically leaned Democratic. The announcement, confirmed by The Lakewood Scoop on October 23, marks the first time that all regional councils, including the Vaad, TRJCC, and advisory boards from nearby towns such as Toms River, Jackson, Howell, and Manchester, have jointly endorsed a Republican candidate for governor.
The significance of this move cannot be overstated. Lakewood and its surrounding communities represent an estimated 65,000 voters — a bloc large enough to influence statewide margins in what analysts expect to be a razor-thin contest between Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill. For decades, Lakewood’s Jewish leadership had supported Democratic candidates, citing social welfare policies and education funding as key priorities. This year, however, local leaders have voiced growing frustration with state policies on crime, taxes, and education mandates — issues that have gained traction among working families and faith-based communities alike.
“For the first time ever, the Jewish councils for the local towns surrounding Lakewood — including Toms River, Jackson, Howell, and Manchester — announced a united endorsement for Jack Ciattarelli for Governor,” read the statement released by the councils. “Our communities need leadership that listens, protects our values, and supports families and schools.” The endorsement letters, signed by council members and community representatives, were released publicly alongside images of Ciattarelli meeting residents at campaign events.
Ciattarelli, a former assemblyman and two-time gubernatorial candidate, has framed his campaign around restoring affordability, safety, and parental control in education — themes that have resonated deeply with religious and suburban voters. At a rally in Lakewood following the endorsement, he expressed gratitude for the community’s trust. “This isn’t about party,” he said. “It’s about people. It’s about making New Jersey livable again, safe again, and fair again for every hardworking family.”
The endorsement also arrives amid controversy surrounding comments made earlier in the campaign by one of Ciattarelli’s aides, who was criticized for remarks perceived as insensitive toward Jewish donors. Ciattarelli swiftly distanced himself from the remarks, calling them “wrong and unrepresentative of my campaign.” His outreach to faith-based groups has since intensified, including meetings with local rabbis and civic leaders.
Political analysts say the Lakewood endorsement could serve as a turning point in the race. The community’s organizational structure allows for coordinated voter mobilization, often delivering high turnout rates that can swing local and statewide contests. “This is the kind of grassroots momentum Republicans have been seeking in New Jersey for years,” said one strategist familiar with the state’s political landscape. “If Ciattarelli can hold these margins in Lakewood and replicate them in nearby counties, this race suddenly becomes competitive at a level Democrats didn’t expect.”
For many Lakewood residents, the decision to back Ciattarelli reflects broader dissatisfaction with state leadership. Concerns over rising taxes, housing costs, and what many describe as overreach in public education have reshaped local priorities. “People are tired of promises that don’t deliver,” said a local business owner. “Ciattarelli listens — that’s the difference.”
While Democrats have yet to respond formally, party insiders acknowledge the endorsement as a symbolic blow to their traditional base in central New Jersey. The shift underscores a growing trend in American politics: culturally conservative or economically burdened voters realigning toward Republican candidates who emphasize community, stability, and economic relief.
As the election draws near, both campaigns are preparing for an all-out effort to energize their supporters. But for now, Ciattarelli’s historic endorsement in Lakewood has injected new energy into his campaign — and sent a clear message across New Jersey’s political map.
