Jack Ciattarelli Can Sue Mikie Sherrill for Defamation Ahead of New Jersey Elections

The upcoming New Jersey gubernatorial election is heating up as Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli considers a defamation lawsuit against his opponent, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. This legal move comes as election officials confirm that Ciattarelli can use personal funds to pursue the case.

Background of the Conflict

During the campaign, Congresswoman Sherrill has made serious allegations regarding Ciattarelli’s tenure in the private sector, specifically referring to his previous ownership of a medical publishing company. Here’s what she claims:

• Connection to Opioid Crisis: Sherrill accused Ciattarelli of profiting from pharmaceutical companies by publishing “propaganda” on opioid safety.
• Allegations of Harm: She stated that his actions contributed to the opioid crisis, claiming, “As he made millions, as these opioid companies made billions, tens of thousands of New Jerseyans died.”

Ciattarelli’s Response

Jack Ciattarelli has vehemently denied these allegations, labeling them as "baseless lies." In a response to Fox News, he asserted, “We’re not letting her get away with that lie.” His campaign has yet to reveal when the defamation lawsuit will be filed, although the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) has confirmed his right to sue if using personal finances.

ELEC Ruling and Implications

On Monday, the ELEC delivered a significant ruling:

• Ciattarelli can proceed with a defamation lawsuit as long as he uses his own funds.
• The commission stated this decision was unanimous, emphasizing the legal right of candidates in similar situations.

The ELEC also mentioned they would clarify how personal fund usage might affect campaigns financially, especially in terms of contributions and expenditure limits.

Recent Polling and Election Context

This election marks Ciattarelli’s third attempt at securing the governorship. His previous runs include:

• 2017: Lost in the Republican primary.
• 2021: Narrowly lost to incumbent Governor Phil Murphy by just three points.

With polling suggesting a tighter race this year, recent surveys from Rutgers University show Sherrill leading Ciattarelli by only five points, a far narrower margin than previous elections.

Key Facts to Watch

• Election Date: Next Tuesday.
• Ciattarelli’s Business Background: Sold his company, Galen Publishing, in 2017.
• GOP Momentum: Following a ten-point swing to the right in recent elections, Republican strategies are gaining traction.

Conclusion

As the election nears, the contentious claims and potential lawsuit add layers of complexity to the race for New Jersey governor. Both candidates have significant stakes in this upcoming election, and how they navigate these allegations could impact voter perceptions and decisions.

For more information on the New Jersey gubernatorial race, refer to Gothamist, and stay tuned for election updates as they unfold.