A Democrat councilman in New Jersey has defected to the Republican Party and endorsed gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, marking a significant shift in local politics. Alpine Councilman David Kupferschmid cited the Democratic Party’s transformation as his reason for switching allegiance, calling it “unrecognizable” and stating it no longer represents residents.
Kupferschmid, who won his council seat in 2023 and faces re-election next year, emphasized that his move would make him the first Republican on the Alpine council in over two decades. He argued that the shift reflects a need for “alternate voices” in the town’s governance. “I hope this is the beginning of a resurgence for the Republican Party in Alpine,” he said.
Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in 2021, has gained traction in this year’s race. Kupferschmid highlighted Ciattarelli’s focus on curbing over-development and addressing crime, contrasting it with the Democratic leadership’s perceived failures. “While Sherrill refuses to denounce the far left radicals in her party, Jack Ciattarelli has been appealing to all sides with a common sense message,” Kupferschmid stated.
Republican figures have rallied behind Ciattarelli, including Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL), who joined the campaign to emphasize issues like tax cuts and business-friendly policies. “Our plan for NJ is simple—lowering taxes across the board, making it easier to do business,” Ciattarelli said.
Despite Democratic dominance in Alpine, polls suggest a tightening race as Ciattarelli closes the gap against Democrat candidate Tammy Murphy. The councilman’s defection underscores growing dissatisfaction within the party and signals potential shifts in New Jersey’s political landscape.