New Jersey Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli received an unexpected visit from his son during a campaign event, drawing cheers from supporters ahead of Tuesday’s election. Jake Ciattarelli, an Army officer stationed in Kuwait, surprised his father while he was rallying voters at Murph’s Tavern in northern New Jersey.
Passaic County Republican Chairman Peter Murphy introduced the visit, stating, “Your biggest supporter who serves his country just came over overnight to serve you.” The crowd erupted in applause and chants of “USA” as Ciattarelli embraced his son. The candidate joked about his son’s return, quipping, “Now let me guess, you called the president yesterday. He sent Air Force One over to Kuwait and picked up Jack.”
Jake, a captain in the Army since late 2023, planned to remain in the U.S. through Thursday to support his father. Ciattarelli has previously shared photos of his son highlighting a “New Jersey Ave” sign in the Middle East.
The competitive race between Ciattarelli and Democratic incumbent Mikie Sherrill remains tight, with polls indicating a dead heat. Sherrill focused on suburban voters in Morris County, while Ciattarelli campaigned in Totowa and Neptune City. Early voting numbers showed a 5-point advantage for Sherrill, but Ciattarelli’s internal polling suggested a closer contest.
The election also faces scrutiny over mail-in ballot procedures in Passaic County, where the federal Department of Justice will monitor voting processes amid concerns about fraud. Democrats have criticized the oversight as an attempt at voter suppression.