New Jersey Gubernatorial Debate: Shared Support for Full-Service Gas Stations

The race for the New Jersey governorship is heating up as candidates Congresswoman Mikie Sherill and former Congressman Jack Ciattarelli prepare for the upcoming election on November 4. While their campaign platforms diverge on many political issues, one topic has unified them: the unique law in New Jersey that prohibits drivers from pumping their own gas.

A Rare Moment of Accord

During a recent debate in Middlesex County, both candidates expressed their commitment to maintaining New Jersey’s long-standing prohibition on self-service gasoline.

• Congresswoman Mikie Sherill remarked, “I think a lot of people really love our state laws as they are,” emphasizing her appreciation for the law since moving from Virginia. She fondly recalled the convenience it provided during her early days as a parent, especially “when my kids were little, and in the rain.”

• Jack Ciattarelli praised the gas-pumping law as one of New Jersey’s “special, special differences,” adding with a touch of humor, “Jersey girls don’t like to pump their own gas. We’ll continue at full service.”

The Candidates’ Diverse Backgrounds

While both candidates find common ground on the topic of gas stations, the debate became contentious over other issues.

• Sherill’s Accusations: Sherill took Ciattarelli to task for his involvement with the medical publishing company Galen, alleging that his work contributed to the opioid epidemic. “He made his millions by working with some of the worst offenders in saying opioids were safe while tens of thousands of New Jerseyans died,” she argued, leading to a heated exchange marked by mutual accusations of "Shame on you."

• Ciattarelli’s Counterattack: In response, Ciattarelli shifted the focus to Sherill’s military history, citing her failure to report a high-profile cheating scandal during her time at the U.S. Naval Academy. “I got to walk at my college graduation, I never broke the law,” he declared in a bid to bolster his integrity.

Latest Polling Trends

The race has been highly competitive, with recent polls indicating a shift in momentum. A Fox News poll reports Sherill leading with 50% support among likely voters, compared to Ciattarelli’s 42%, giving her an eight-point advantage. In contrast, a Quantus Insights poll reflects a tighter race, with Sherill ahead by just two points.

Key Poll Findings

• Among registered voters, Sherill’s lead widens to 48% to 41%.
• Both candidates enjoy strong support within their respective party bases:
  • 90% of Republicans back Ciattarelli.
  • 89% of Democrats support Sherill.

As the candidates continue their campaigns, the stakes become increasingly high, particularly given the contentious topics being debated. With the election date fast approaching, voters in New Jersey can expect a lively political landscape leading up to November 4.

For more information on voter registration and polling locations in New Jersey, visit the New Jersey Division of Elections.