In a spirited debate held on February 4, 2025, at Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, four candidates contending for the Republican gubernatorial primary clashed in a nearly two-hour discussion. State Sen. Jon Bramnick, former state Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, one-time state Sen. Ed Durr, and radio host Bill Spadea engaged in a lively exchange as they prepared for the upcoming June 10 vote. The debate highlighted their differing views and strategies as they aimed to capture the support of Republican voters while also appealing to independents and Democrats.
The candidates frequently interrupted one another, showcasing the intensity of their rivalry. They took sharp jabs at each other, with a notable exchange occurring when Ciattarelli critiqued Spadea's lack of endorsements from local Republicans, suggesting that those who knew Spadea best chose to back him instead. Spadea quickly countered by bringing up Ciattarelli’s past as a “two-time loser” in gubernatorial races, an apparent reference to Ciattarelli’s unsuccessful bids for the office in previous elections. This competitive tone emphasized the candidates' urgency to assert their strengths before the primary.
The debate unfolded against the backdrop of President Donald Trump's second administration, as the GOP sought to reclaim the governorship in a historically swing state. While Durr, Ciattarelli, and Spadea consistently expressed their support for Trump, Bramnick stood apart, advocating for a broader appeal to a wider voter base beyond Republican primary supporters. Spadea notably stated his loyalty to Trump since he announced his candidacy in 2015, highlighting his alignment with the former president's policies and approach.
Rounding out their discussions, the candidates outlined their intentions regarding law enforcement and immigration. Each candidate voiced their opposition to executive orders enacted by current Democratic Governor Phil Murphy that limit local police cooperation with immigration authorities. When asked about their stance on potential constitutional amendments to enshrine abortion rights, Bramnick expressed support, while Durr and Spadea rejected the idea. Ciattarelli, who supports abortion rights, did not clarify his position regarding the amendment, showcasing the candidates’ varying perspectives on this contentious issue.
As the debate wrapped up, the candidates reiterated their messaging and strategies, reminding voters of their political ambitions. With Governor Phil Murphy barred from seeking a third term, this election presents an essential opportunity for Republican contenders in New Jersey and Virginia, the only two states with scheduled gubernatorial elections in 2025. The tone and content of the debate provided valuable insight into the candidates' priorities and their approach to engaging the electorate ahead of the pivotal primary election.
