Read, Watch or Listen

New Jersey's gubernatorial candidates, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli, debated key issues in their first general election clash. Political violence, sparked by the death of Charlie Kirk, emerged as an early concern, with both expressing safety worries while affirming free speech. The candidates clashed over energy policies, particularly offshore wind farms, and the rising cost of living, with Sherrill blaming the Trump administration's cuts to renewable energy funding and Ciattarelli criticizing the Murphy administration and advocating for diverse energy sources. Disagreements over the 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and vaccine policies further highlighted their ideological differences. Ciattarelli repeatedly criticized Sherrill's stance on transgender participation in youth sports.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.