CHERRY HILL, N.J. (WPVI) — The day after a lively debate between the two main candidates for New Jersey governor, co-hosted by 6abc’s Tamala Edwards, some voters are still struggling with their choice.
“They always say a lot, but you don’t know until you get into office what they’re going to do,” said Lorraine from Camden, N.J.
“With the TV commercials and all, I just don’t like what’s going on. I don’t like what’s going on in this whole world,” said Denise Riley of Pennsauken, N.J.
On Wednesday night, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli sparred about affordability, taxes and energy costs, along with national issues like immigration and political violence.
MORE | Mikie Sherrill and Jack Ciattarelli clash in final NJ governor’s debate | Watch the full debate
Watch the full New Jersey gubernatorial debate between Jack Ciattarelli and Mikie Sherrill.
“On day one, I’m declaring a state of emergency on energy prices,” said Sherrill.
“We also have to take care of the property tax crisis, something you won’t hear my opponent ever talk about,” said Ciattarelli.
We spoke with voters about what issues are on their minds, less than a month out from the election.
“Ciattarelli’s going to get it… I’m hoping he will do better for us with taxes,” said Marleen Vesci of Tabernacle, N.J.
“I don’t think we do enough for our mentally ill. There’s not enough resources,” said Keisha Allen of Lindenwold, N.J.
The race is poised to reach a record-setting milestone in the state, closing in on $200 million spent between the primary and general election.
Alyssa Maurice, assistant director of the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University, says much of that money spent is about getting voters to the polls — in a year where there are no federal elections.
“The stakes are very high for both parties. I think the Democratic Party is at an inflection point. Voters are looking for stronger opposition against the trump administration. And so they’re going to be looking to show a sign of strength with a win in New Jersey,” said Maurice. “And on the flip side, Trump is going to be looking to this race as well. He wants to show that he’s in a strong position ahead of the midterms in 2026.”
Voter Bruce Croskey of Willingboro, N.J., watched the debate and didn’t like all the personal attacks he saw.
“It’s business,” said Croskey. “It’s about health. It’s about people. It’s about human beings. We’re all in this together.”
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