Jack Ciattarelli

Giacchino Michael "Jack" Ciattarelli is a former American politician and businessman, known for his tenure as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly representing the 16th Legislative District from 2011 to 2018. A member of the Republican Party, Ciattarelli has also made multiple attempts to secure the governorship of New Jersey, running in the 2017, 2021, and 2025 elections. His political career has been marked by a series of campaigns and a focus on various policy issues, reflecting the evolving landscape of New Jersey politics.

Early life and career

Jack Ciattarelli was born on December 12, 1961, in Somerville, New Jersey, and grew up in the nearby town of Raritan. His family background includes Italian heritage, as his paternal grandparents immigrated to the United States from Valentano, Lazio, Italy, in the early 20th century. This cultural background has influenced his perspectives and engagement in community affairs throughout his life.

Ciattarelli pursued higher education at Seton Hall University, where he earned a degree in accounting and became a certified public accountant. His academic achievements laid the groundwork for his future career in business. Following his graduation, he became involved in the medical publishing industry, serving as the owner and publisher of American Medical Publishing and later Galen Publishing. In addition to his business ventures, Ciattarelli has experience as an adjunct professor at Seton Hall University, where he taught from 1998 to 2001.

Legislative service

Ciattarelli's political career began at the local level when he was elected to the Raritan Borough Council, serving from 1990 to 1995. During his time on the council, he held the position of council president from 1991 until 1995. After choosing not to seek re-election in 1995, he took a break from politics for over a decade.

In 2007, Ciattarelli returned to public service by winning a seat on the Somerset County Board of Freeholders, where he served until November 2011. His experience on the Board of Freeholders provided him with insights into county governance and public policy.

In 2011, Ciattarelli sought a position in the New Jersey General Assembly, running for an open seat in the 16th Legislative District that had been vacated by Denise Coyle due to redistricting. He successfully won the election on November 8, 2011, alongside his running mate, Peter J. Biondi. Following Biondi's passing just two days after the election, Ciattarelli was sworn in to complete Biondi's unexpired term on December 5, 2011, and subsequently began his first full term on January 10, 2012.

During his time in the General Assembly, Ciattarelli was involved in various legislative committees, including the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee and the Regulated Professions Committee. He also served as an assistant Republican Whip, contributing to party leadership and legislative strategy. After completing his term, he chose not to seek re-election in 2017, opting instead to run for governor.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Ciattarelli focused on a range of policy issues that resonated with his constituents in the 16th Legislative District. His positions on various topics have evolved over time, reflecting broader trends within the Republican Party and shifts in public opinion.

Ciattarelli's stance on abortion has been characterized by a support for restrictions, advocating for a ban on the procedure after 20 weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions only in cases where the life of the patient is at risk. He has expressed a nuanced position regarding the landmark Supreme Court ruling Roe v. Wade, indicating that he does not support its overturning.

His relationship with former President Donald Trump has also been a notable aspect of his political journey. Initially critical of Trump, referring to him as a "charlatan" in 2015, Ciattarelli later aligned himself with Trump’s policies and endorsed him in subsequent elections. This shift in support was evident during his gubernatorial campaigns, particularly in 2021 and 2025, where he received Trump's endorsement, which played a significant role in his primary victories.

On immigration, Ciattarelli's views have shifted over time. He previously opposed granting driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants but later reversed his position, expressing support for providing access to licenses.

In terms of LGBTQ issues, Ciattarelli's voting record reflects a mix of conservative and moderate positions. He voted against a bill legalizing same-sex marriage in 2012 but also supported legislation banning conversion therapy for minors. His comments regarding LGBTQ education in schools have drawn attention and criticism, particularly his opposition to certain educational curricula.

Ciattarelli's political career has been marked by his engagement with local issues and his attempts to address the concerns of his constituents in New Jersey. His legislative service and gubernatorial campaigns highlight his evolving political stance and the challenges he faced in navigating the complex landscape of New Jersey politics. As a former state legislator and gubernatorial candidate, Ciattarelli remains a notable figure in the state's political discourse, reflecting the ongoing debates within the Republican Party and the broader electorate.