Gubernatorial Elections Approach in New Jersey and Virginia
Only two gubernatorial elections will occur this year, in Virginia and New Jersey. In Virginia, Terry McAuliffe is seeking to continue the democratic leadership in his state His opponent, Glenn Youngskin seeks an appointment to his position. In New Jersey, Phil Murphy is seeking his second term against challenger Jack Ciattarelli.
In Virginia, a tight race has McAuliffe barely leading with a 2.2% lead over Youngskin. This is significantly closer than the 2017 election, which saw current governor Ralph Northam win by 8.9 points.
Momentum is critical in this race, and Youngskin has had massive momentum since the beginning of September. Virginia has long been considered a Democratic stronghold; Democrats have won the presidential vote from this state every time since 2008 and governor control since 2013.
It is anyone’s race. If Republicans win this election, it could spell trouble for Democrats heading into the midterms next year.
Back in my home state of New Jersey, Murphy’s popularity has been notably dwindling. Ciattarelli has been gaining ground on Murphy ever since May. According to RealClearPolitics, Murphy has not polled positively (as in his lead growing) since June, a point increase from May.
His lead is still prevalent, with a 9% advantage over Ciattarelli. Importantly though, Ciattarelli has been able to outspend Murphy by a margin of $3 million, impacting his growing popularity.
Ciattarelli’s advertising openly goes after Murphy on his policies regarding taxes, which was seen in the gubernatorial debate. The debate put both candidates on display for who each of them is and what they plan to do.
Ciattarelli went after Murphy all night, attempting to discredit his policies and blaming him for the loss of life during COVID. Murphy attempted to keep a cool head and rebuke Ciattarelli’s arguments, while also accusing him of involvement with the “Stop the Steal” movement (which claimed Biden stole the election).
Election day is closing in for both of these states. While they are essential for the citizens of each state, arguably, these elections could paint a picture for the 2022 midterms.
