Former New Jersey Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli has emerged as the overwhelming frontrunner in the race for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, according to a newly released internal poll conducted by his campaign. The survey, carried out by Kitchen Table Conservatives between February 5 and February 7, shows Ciattarelli leading his closest competitor by an impressive 39 points, solidifying his position as the early favorite in the crowded 2025 Republican primary field.
The poll pegs Ciattarelli’s support at 42%, far ahead of radio host Bill Spadea, who garnered 13%. State Senator Jon Bramnick trailed further behind with 4%, while former State Senator Ed Durr and Cresskill Mayor John Kranjac each registered at just 2%. With the primary election still months away on June 10, the results suggest Ciattarelli’s name recognition and political experience are giving him a significant edge among Republican voters.
Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to Democratic Governor Phil Murphy in the 2021 general election, has positioned himself as a pragmatic conservative with broad appeal. His campaign has emphasized his deep ties to New Jersey, billing him as a “Jersey guy” who understands the state’s challenges, particularly on issues like taxes and economic growth.
The internal poll’s findings align with recent independent surveys, such as the Emerson College/PIX11/The Hill poll from January, which showed Ciattarelli leading Spadea 26% to 13%, though with a substantial undecided voter bloc.
“These numbers reflect what we’re seeing on the ground—Republicans are rallying behind Jack because he’s a proven leader who nearly won the governorship four years ago,” a Ciattarelli campaign spokesperson said. “He’s got the experience, the vision, and the determination to unite the party and take on the Democrats in November.”
Spadea, a prominent conservative media figure, has sought to challenge Ciattarelli by appealing to the party’s grassroots base, often criticizing “weak Republicans” and touting his outsider status. However, the poll indicates he has yet to close the gap, despite a vocal presence on airwaves and at campaign events. Meanwhile, Bramnick, who has distanced himself from former President Donald Trump, appears to be struggling to gain traction, as do Durr and Kranjac, both of whom poll in the single digits.
Political analysts caution that internal polls, designed to boost campaign momentum, can sometimes overstate a candidate’s strength. Nonetheless, Ciattarelli’s consistent lead across multiple surveys underscores his dominance in the race so far.
“Jack’s got the name ID and the track record,” said Dr. Michael Rossi, a political science professor at Rutgers University. “But with nearly half the electorate still undecided in other polls, there’s room for someone to make a move if they can capture the party’s energy.”
The Republican primary is shaping up to be a critical battle as the party seeks a strong nominee to challenge the Democratic contender in the race to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy. Ciattarelli’s camp is banking on his near-upset in 2021—when he came within 3 percentage points of defeating Murphy—as proof he can compete in a state where Democrats hold a significant voter registration advantage.
As the campaign intensifies, Ciattarelli is expected to lean into his policy priorities, including tax relief and public safety, while fending off attacks from rivals. For now, his 39-point lead sends a clear message: the former assemblyman is the man to beat in the Republican primary.
Check your math. Only 29% not 39%