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For the first time in New Jersey Ocean County Orthodox Jewish leaders have rallied behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, forming one of the most powerful religious voting coalitions in the state, according to a report.
Lakewood scoop said the endorsement, announced jointly by the councils representing Lakewood, Jackson, Toms River, Howell and Manchester, marks an unprecedented demonstration of community unity that has become a decisive force in New Jersey politics.
The Vaad, Lakewood's longtime community council, worked closely with colleagues in surrounding cities to agree this year's approval.
Leaders told The Lakewood Scoop that the effort reflects an intentional move toward greater collaboration among municipalities, emphasizing that this election season is about unity, turnout and shared priorities.
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Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican candidate for governor of New Jersey, talks with supporters at a diner in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, October 15, 2025. (Paul Steinhauser/Fox News)
“Although the process took a little longer than usual, this time it was for a good reason: for the first time, we were working to ensure that all cities were united and unified,” organizers told the publication. “The focus was on Ahdus – unity and collaboration – to ensure that the voice of every community was represented in one strong collective statement.”
“Every vote in every city matters in this election,” they added. “Each region has its own local races and priorities, but together we share a great responsibility to vote for all possible voices. The decision in this election will depend on turnout. Let’s make sure our communities are heard loud and clear at the ballot box.”
Lakewood Scoop also received letters from local communities highlighting that unity, including a letter sent to Howell residents urging every eligible voter to vote.
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Republican New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli on stage before the final debate in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on October 8. (Heather Khalifa/AP Photo)
“Our voice is only as strong as the number of people who actually vote,” the letter said. “We strongly encourage you to vote for the following people who have shown concern and friendship for our community: TOGETHER WITH OUR FRIENDS IN NEIGHBORING CITIES, JACK CITTARELLI FOR GOVERNOR.”
The letter also lists additional candidates for state and local offices.
The Lakewood Vaad called for unity and turnout across the Orthodox Jewish community, emphasizing that every vote counts as New Jersey heads into a crucial election season. The letter highlights the Vaad's long-standing practice of consulting with rabbinical leadership and community representatives to make collective, values-based policy decisions.
For the first time in New Jersey politics, Orthodox Jewish leaders in Ocean County united behind Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli. (Victor J. Blue/Getty Images; Mark Kozlarich/Getty Images)
Leaders called voting both a civic duty and an expression of gratitude to officials who supported local priorities – especially education fundingtransportation and religious freedom.
Thanking the President Donald Trump For his efforts on behalf of Israel and the fight against anti-Semitism, the Vaad endorsed Ciattarelli for governor, citing his agreement with public concerns about schooling, infrastructure and taxes.
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Vaad said: “Remember, your voice is your voice. May it be considered for the continued strength and influence of our community.”
Ciattarelli is looking to turn New Jersey from blue to red as he faces Democratic challenger Mickey Sherrill.
