Thomas Kean Endorses Jack Ciattarelli in a Pivotal New Jersey Governor’s Race
- Veteran Republican Thomas Kean breaks his silence to back a GOP candidate.
- Kean highlights Ciattarelli’s character, experience, and ability to deliver real change.
- The endorsement amplifies Republican momentum in a tight contest against Mikie Sherrill.
Former New Jersey Gov. Thomas Kean, who largely stepped away from partisan fights years ago, has publicly endorsed Jack Ciattarelli for governor and said New Jersey “needs a change” while calling Ciattarelli a compassionate and decent leader he’s known for decades. This kind of high-profile backing matters in a state where Republican wins are rare and credibility counts. Republicans see Kean’s voice as a reminder that character and results still resonate with voters.
Kean, the 48th governor who served from 1982 to 1990, comes from a storied political family that traces back to William Livingston, the state’s first constitutional governor, according to the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University. His track record on education reform and environmental issues made him a respected, pragmatic conservative in New Jersey politics. That reputation is why his endorsement carries weight beyond party lines.
Kean announced his support Monday on social media and urged voters to back Ciattarelli in Tuesday’s election. “I haven’t been involved in partisan politics for a number of years, but this year is different,” Kean said in a video shared by Ciattarelli on X. “New Jersey needs a change and needs a change badly. Jack Ciattarelli is that change.”
Why the Endorsement Matters
In the endorsement video Kean emphasized character and a proven work ethic as reasons to back Ciattarelli, and Republicans are quick to point out those traits contrast with career politicking. “We’ve got a lot to do in New Jersey,” he continued. “I’ve known Jack for 25 years. He’s compassionate, he’s decent, he works hard, and he’d be a great Governor for New Jersey.”
The race has tightened, with Ciattarelli closing in on Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill as voters weigh issues like taxes, schools, and public safety in a post-Murphy contest. High-profile GOP involvement, including national figures and local veterans, signals party confidence in flipping the governor’s office this cycle. Supporters say Kean’s backing makes the case that Ciattarelli can unite pragmatic voters and conservative activists alike.
Ciattarelli responded by invoking Kean’s standard for effective leadership and asking supporters to turn out. “Now it’s our turn to bring that kind of government back,” he said. “Let’s get out and vote for real change, real results, and a brighter future for New Jersey.”
Kean’s post-public-office roles included leading Drew University and chairing the 9/11 Commission after being appointed by then-President George W. Bush in 2002, a bipartisan moment that cemented his national stature. His broad record and electoral success, including a near 70% re-election victory in 1985, frame this endorsement as a meaningful moment for the GOP. With New Jersey and Virginia serving as early tests of voter mood, Republicans hope Kean’s voice helps tip the balance.
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