New Jersey Democrats vow to fight Trump in final gubernatorial debate

The top Democratic candidates running for governor of New Jersey faced off in their final debate Sunday night before next month's primary, vowing to take on President Donald Trump and laying out why they are best positioned to win in November.

The top Democratic candidates running for governor of New Jersey faced off in their final debate Sunday night before next month's primary, vowing to take on President Donald Trump and laying out why they are best positioned to win in November. 

Five of the six Democratic contenders — Reps. Mikie Sherrill and Josh Gottheimer, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and former state Senate President Steve Sweeney — met Sunday night in a debate hosted by On New Jersey, the New Jersey Globe and Rider University. A sixth candidate, Montclair Mayor Sean Spiller, did not meet the fundraising threshold to take part.

The candidates sparred for over 2½ hours over a variety of state-specific issues, from transit and education funding to taxes and state budgets. But they were united in resolving to take on Trump. 

New Jersey is one of two states, along with Virginia, with governor’s races this year, which could provide an early look at how voters are responding to Trump’s second term. While the Virginia matchup is set, the New Jersey candidates first have to compete in the June 10 primary.  

There are contested primaries on both sides, but former Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli has led the GOP primary field, and he secured Trump’s endorsement last week. The Democratic race has been more unpredictable, with a crowded field dividing voters.