The Republican Gubernatorial Debate!
Newark, New Jersey.- By Oscar Alberto Quintana
The Republican and Democratic debates were sponsored by the New Jersey Globe, On New Jersey and Rider University. They offered voters a dissection of the candidates’ platforms ahead of the June 10th primaries.
“These debates represented a critical opportunity for voters to hear directly from the candidates in a format that was accessible, engaging, and driven by New Jersey voices,” said Gerald D’Ambra, co-founder and managing partner of On New Jersey.
The debates were moderated by Emmy Award-winning journalist Laura Jones, host of NJ Politics. Both Republican and Democratic debates included panelists David Wildstein and Joey Fox of the New Jersey Globe, and Micah Rasmussen of Rider University’s Rebovich Institute. Both debates took place at the Donald M. Payne Sr. School of Technology in Newark. Students from Payne Tech asked questions to the candidates.
The Republican candidates are Bill Spadea, Jack Ciattarelli and State Senator John Bramnick.
Bill Spadea, the famous radio personality used to broadcast his conservative message from New Jersey’s 101.5FM. During the debate, he kept jabbing at the two other candidates for considering them part of the problem as they have been serving in the legislature for some time.
The Republican candidates’ message on immigration is no consolation for undocumented immigrants. Spadea, Bramnick and Ciattarelli have promised to end New Jersey immigration’s sanctuary state status on day one of their administration. That is, if they come out victorious on the political ring, against a Democratic contender in the November general election.
Jack Ciattarelli is the runaway candidate, as he is being endorsed by President Donald Trump. In a previous election, Ciattarelli lost to Governor Murphy for 3 points. And this time, he might have another shot at the gubernatorial seat if he wins the Republican Primary nomination.
John Bramnick, dubbed the “funniest lawyer in New Jersey” is an attorney and State Senator. Clearly, he does not have too many chances to win the primary nomination. That fight will be between Spadea and Ciattarelli.
One of these gentlemen will be facing the winner of the Democratic party’s primary nomination: The slate of democratic candidates are Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot; Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Jersey City ex-Mayor Steve Fulop, a former Marine; Rep. Josh Gottheimer, and former State Senate President Steve Sweeney.
And as always the Primary New Jersey voters will decide who their nominees will be!
