Supporters of Republican Jack Ciattarelli show greater enthusiasm for his candidacy for New Jersey governor compared to those backing Rep. Mikie Sherrill, according to a recent poll.
The Quinnipiac University poll reveals that 91% of likely voters for Ciattarelli express enthusiasm, whereas 86% of Sherrill’s (D-NJ) supporters feel the same way.
In spite of this enthusiasm disparity, Sherrill maintains a 50% to 44% lead over Ciattarelli among likely voters in New Jersey, just over two weeks ahead of the election.
Quinnipiac University Polling Analyst Tim Malloy reflected, “The intense debates have concluded, attack ads are rampant, and the race is tight, with Sherrill currently ahead.”
He added, “As we approach Election Day, the vigor of the voters will likely influence turnout. Presently, Ciattarelli holds an advantage in that aspect.”
Polls have shown tightening figures since late last month, with some indicating a tie at the beginning of October. An internal survey for Ciattarelli indicated he was ahead by one point.
Sherrill’s lead has narrowed to 4.6 percentage points over Ciattarelli in the latest RealClearPolitics aggregate, a decline from her near double-digit lead earlier in the summer.
On various crucial issues, voters have expressed mixed sentiments toward both candidates.
A slight majority of voters revealed they trust Ciattarelli more than Sherrill regarding economic management (47% to 44%), per the Quinnipiac poll.
Sherrill also holds a slight advantage over Ciattarelli when it comes to education management in New Jersey, leading 50% to 41%, as well as in transit oversight with a score of 48% to 38%.
The candidates were evenly matched on the topic of public safety, each garnering 45% support.
The Quinnipiac poll was conducted just a week following the candidates’ debate and surveyed 1,327 likely New Jersey voters from October 9 to 13, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.6 percentage points.
