Ocean County’s Orthodox Jewish leaders have just dropped a political bombshell by uniting behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli. This isn’t just a nod of approval; it’s a historic coalition that could shake up New Jersey’s blue-to-red battle.
In a groundbreaking move, councils representing Lakewood, Jackson, Toms River, Howell, and Manchester have come together to endorse Ciattarelli, forming one of the state’s most powerful faith-based voting blocs.
This kind of unity across municipal lines is a first for New Jersey politics, as reported by The Lakewood Scoop. It’s not just a handshake agreement; it’s a deliberate strategy to amplify influence. And let’s be real—when a community this organized speaks, politicians listen.
The Lakewood Vaad, a longstanding community council, spearheaded this effort by collaborating with neighboring towns to align their political endorsements. Organizers admitted the process took longer than usual, but for good reason—they wanted every town on the same page. If that’s not a masterclass in coalition-building, what is?
“While the process took a little longer than usual, this time it was for a meaningful reason – for the first time, we worked to ensure that all towns are united and on the same page,” organizers told The Lakewood Scoop. Well, kudos for patience, but let’s hope this unity translates to votes, not just press releases. In a state where elections often hinge on turnout, this could be the edge Ciattarelli needs.
The Vaad’s approach isn’t just about picking a winner; it’s rooted in consultation with rabbinic leaders and community reps to ensure decisions reflect shared values. They’ve cited Ciattarelli’s stance on education funding, infrastructure, and tax policies as aligning with local needs. Sounds like a practical choice, not a partisan cheer squad.
Ciattarelli, the Republican nominee aiming to flip New Jersey’s political color, has been making the rounds, speaking at a diner in Saddle Brook and taking the stage before the final debate in New Brunswick. This endorsement couldn’t have come at a better time as he faces off against Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill. Timing, as they say, is everything.
Community leaders are doubling down on the importance of every ballot, with letters to residents in Howell urging full participation. “Our voice is only as strong as the number of people who actually vote,” the letter stated. Blunt, but true—democracy isn’t a spectator sport.
The Lakewood Vaad echoed this urgency, calling for solidarity and maximum turnout across the Orthodox Jewish community. Voting, they argue, is both a civic responsibility and a way to thank officials who’ve backed local priorities like religious freedom and transportation. It’s a refreshing take in an era where gratitude in politics feels rarer than a unicorn.
The emphasis on turnout isn’t just rhetoric; leaders see it as the deciding factor in this gubernatorial race. With shared priorities at stake, the message is clear: show up or shut down your influence. That’s not woke fluff—that’s cold, hard strategy.
Even broader gestures of appreciation surfaced, with the Vaad thanking former President Donald Trump for his support of Israel and efforts against antisemitism. It’s a nod to larger conservative values, tying local concerns to national ones. Smart politics, if you ask me, without veering into divisive territory.
This coalition’s focus on “achdus”—a Hebrew term for unity—underlines their collective approach, ensuring every community’s voice joins the chorus. It’s a stark contrast to the fragmented, hyper-individualistic trends of progressive agendas that often dominate coastal states. Unity over division? Sign me up.
Letters to residents didn’t mince words, directly endorsing Ciattarelli alongside local candidates who’ve shown support for the community. It’s less about party loyalty and more about who’s delivered on the ground. That’s the kind of pragmatism Washington could use a dose of.
The Lakewood Vaad’s final plea sums it up: “Remember, your vote is your voice. Make it count for our community’s continued strength and influence.” If that doesn’t light a fire under voters, I don’t know what will—because in a tight race, every ballot is a brick in the wall of change.
So, as New Jersey heads toward this pivotal election, all eyes are on Ocean County’s Orthodox Jewish voters and their newfound political muscle behind Ciattarelli. This isn’t just about one candidate; it’s about a community flexing its civic might in a way that could reshape the state’s future. And if turnout matches the hype, we might just see a red wave where blue has long reigned.
