nj governor debate who won

Democrat Mikie Sherrill was widely seen as the winner of the final New Jersey governor debate held on October 8, 2025, against Republican Jack Ciattarelli. Sherrill was praised for being decisive and focused on issues such as lowering costs for New Jersey families, while Ciattarelli was criticized for appearing desperate and supporting Donald Trump with an "A" grade. The debate was contentious and heated, with both candidates accusing each other on various issues including the opioid crisis. Sherrill's campaign and some observers declared her the clear winner of the debate, while Ciattarelli's team also claimed victory, though polling showed Sherrill holding a lead at the time. Overall, most reports and political analysis leaned toward Mikie Sherrill winning the debate decisively.