Tonight is the first Republican gubernatorial debate in New Jersey, and since we know you haven’t heard of most of them, we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about the candidates.
“All of the Republicans running for governor are out-of-touch losers, or in Jack Ciattarelli’s case, repeat losers,” said American Bridge 21st Century spokesperson Monica Venzke. “We’re in for a night of lying, backpeddling, and messy, messy infighting. Let’s just hope Bill Spadea spent more time preparing for this debate than he does on hygiene.”
Here’s what you need to know about the candidates debating tonight:
Jack Ciattarelli:
- Already lost a New Jersey gubernatorial election — twice.
- Said he would not support New Jersey’s Reproductive Freedom Act “in a million years.”
- Supported “putting new restrictions on abortions” in New Jersey.
- Supported then-Governor Chris Christie cutting $7.5 million in funding for women’s health care clinics.
- Called for the repealing of the Affordable Care Act.
- Wanted to trim down benefits for New Jersey teachers, including a reduction in Medicare benefits.
- Supports school vouchers, which skyrocket property taxes and hurt public education.
Bill Spadea:
- Is endorsed by New Jersey Right to Life.
- Celebrated the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
- Promised to defund “radical extreme” groups, specifically the state teachers’ union, Garden State Equality, and Planned Parenthood.
- Attacked the late Senator John McCain for not voting to overturn the ACA.
- Spread 2020 election fraud conspiracy theories and defended January 6th insurrectionists.
- Doesn’t like Bruce Springsteen.
Jon Bramnick:
- Refused to vote to codify abortion rights in New Jersey state law.
- Keeps getting roasted by radio hosts.
Ed Durr:
- Nothing. He is polling at 2%. Don’t worry about him.
Published: Feb 4, 2025