Sherrill Leads Ciattarelli by 8 Points in New Jersey Governor's Race, Quinnipiac Poll Finds

Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill holds a lead over Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the New Jersey governor's race, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released today. Sherrill garners 49% support among likely voters, while Ciattarelli receives 41%. Third-party candidates Vic Kaplan and Joanne Kuniansky each have 1% support, with 6% of voters undecided or not responding.

Party loyalty remains strong, with 93% of Democrats supporting Sherrill and 90% of Republicans backing Ciattarelli. Independents are more divided, with 45% favoring Sherrill and 41% supporting Ciattarelli. Gender differences are notable: 55% of women support Sherrill compared to 35% for Ciattarelli, while men are split, with 48% backing Ciattarelli and 44% supporting Sherrill.

When third-party candidates are excluded, Sherrill's support rises to 51%, with Ciattarelli at 42%. Enthusiasm levels are high among supporters of both major candidates, with 88% of Ciattarelli's backers and 85% of Sherrill's expressing enthusiasm for their chosen candidate.

Voter perceptions of candidate traits show Sherrill leading in key areas. Fifty percent believe she cares about their needs, compared to 44% for Ciattarelli. On leadership skills, 52% favor Sherrill, while 44% prefer Ciattarelli. Regarding honesty, 49% view Sherrill as honest, compared to 38% for Ciattarelli.

"With just under seven weeks to go, the race for the Trenton State House leans Sherrill's way as Ciattarelli lags on three key character issues: honesty, empathy, and leadership," said Quinnipiac University Polling Analyst Tim Malloy.

Taxes emerge as the most important issue for voters, with 30% citing it as their top concern, followed by ethics in government at 14%. Among Republicans, 40% prioritize taxes, while 20% of Democrats focus on ethics in government. Independents align more with Republicans, with 37% emphasizing taxes.

On property taxes, 46% of voters believe Ciattarelli would handle the issue better, compared to 40% for Sherrill. Conversely, 42% think Sherrill would better manage electricity costs, with 40% favoring Ciattarelli.

Voter satisfaction with the state's direction is evenly split, with 49% expressing satisfaction and 49% dissatisfaction. Regarding President Donald Trump's performance, 41% approve, while 55% disapprove. Opinions on the next governor's relationship with President Trump are also divided: 50% want the governor to stand up to him, while 47% prefer collaboration.

The poll surveyed 1,238 likely New Jersey voters from September 11 to 15, with a margin of error of ±3.9 percentage points.