Blue State Democrats In Danger?

With just weeks left before primary voters cast their ballots, New Jersey’s Democratic Party is struggling to rally around a single candidate for governor—highlighting deeper fractures in a party still reeling from years of internal division and an anti-Trump obsession.

No Clear Front-Runner in Crowded, Dysfunctional Field

Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), a former Navy pilot turned career politician, has a slight lead—on paper. But polls consistently show her lead is razor-thin, often within the margin of error, with voter indecision sky-high. That spells trouble for Democrats hoping for a clear direction in the post-Murphy era.

Pollster Ashley Koning, of Rutgers University’s Eagleton Center, noted: “These candidates are bunched together. Voters aren’t sold on anyone.”

Establishment Favorite vs. Reform Candidates

Sherrill has the blessing of the North Jersey political machine and is favored by county insiders. But that label has become a liability. Many voters now equate “machine politics” with high taxes, government overreach, and out-of-touch elites.

Steven Fulop, mayor of Jersey City, has cast himself as the anti-establishment voice, blasting Sherrill’s vague policies and insider ties. “Voters are tired of rubber-stamp Democrats who answer to party bosses,” Fulop told reporters. He’s pushing detailed proposals and reforming what he calls New Jersey’s “corruption tax.”

Progressive Rhetoric, No Real Solutions?

The rest of the Democratic lineup is packed with familiar liberal names:

• Josh Gottheimer is making waves with an ad showing him literally boxing President Trump, though critics say it reeks of desperation.
• Sean Spiller, a union boss and former mayor, claims he’s free of Wall Street influence—despite his campaign being backed by a PAC linked to his own labor group.
• Steve Sweeney, the old-guard Senate powerbroker, is banking on South Jersey turnout and vote-by-mail operations.
• Ras Baraka, Newark’s mayor, remains low-profile in the race but is hoping to gain momentum late.

Trump Era Looms Large Over Democrat Messaging

Rather than focusing on real issues like affordability, crime, and immigration, many candidates continue to make Trump their central theme—ignoring the concerns of average working families already stretched thin under Democrat-led policies.

Strategist Julie Roginsky said it best: “Whoever best positions themselves as a fighter for New Jersey values—and not just another Trump-basher—will break through.”

End of the “County Line” Could Upend the Outcome

In a major shake-up, New Jersey’s outdated county line ballot system—long seen as a tool for establishment control—was ruled unconstitutional and officially scrapped. This opens the door for true grassroots candidates, though party operatives are working overtime to preserve their influence behind the scenes.

Some see this race as a test: Can the Democrat machine survive in an era of political realignment and rising populism?

Bottom Line: Democrat Division = Republican Opportunity

With Democrats still focused on infighting, identity politics, and vague promises, the door remains wide open for common-sense leadership. While liberals fight over who can oppose Trump the loudest, real voters are demanding action on taxes, public safety, and border security.

The June 10 primary may not just determine the next Democratic nominee—it could mark the beginning of the end for the liberal stranglehold on New Jersey politics.