The Orthodox Jewish community across Ocean County has come together in an unprecedented way to back Republican Jack Ciattarelli for governor, turning local councils into a coordinated voting bloc focused on unity, turnout and shared priorities. Leaders from Lakewood, Jackson, Toms River, Howell and Manchester say this joint endorsement is a first for the region and signals a new, organized force in New Jersey politics. Their move emphasizes turning out every eligible voter to make the community’s voice count at the ballot box.
Neighborhood councils worked together to align endorsements across municipal lines, a strategy described as deliberate and values-driven. Organizers framed the effort as more than politics: it’s a community-wide push to make sure local concerns are heard at the state level. That coordination reflects a belief that coordinated civic action can move the needle in close races.
“While the process took a little longer than usual, this time it was for a meaningful reason – for the first time, we worked to ensure that all towns are united and on the same page,” organizers told the outlet. “The focus has been on Achdus – unity and collaboration – so that every community’s voice is represented in one strong collective statement.”
Leaders stress that the endorsement is tied to concrete issues the community cares about, from education funding and infrastructure to protecting religious freedom. They present voting as an expression of civic duty and communal gratitude to officials who prioritize those concerns. This is a practical, results-focused appeal aimed at delivering better outcomes for families and institutions in the area.
“Every single vote in every single town is critical in this election,” they added. “Each area has its own local races and priorities, but together we share a larger responsibility – turning out every possible vote. This election will be decided by turnout. Let’s make sure our communities are heard loud and clear at the ballot box.”
Community councils produced letters urging residents to participate and to back candidates who have shown support for local needs. One widely circulated letter put it plainly: “Our voice is only as strong as the number of people who actually vote,” the letter reads. “We strongly recommend voting for the following individuals who have shown care and friendship toward our community: TOGETHER WITH OUR FRIENDS IN NEIGHBORING TOWNS, JACK CIATTARELLI FOR GOVERNOR.”
The Vaad, Lakewood’s longstanding community council, emphasized consulting rabbis and local representatives when shaping its recommendations. That process of consultation gave the endorsement a communal seal of approval, meant to represent shared values rather than the view of a single leader. The group framed voting as both a responsibility and a strategy to protect institutions the community relies on.
Leaders cited alignment between Ciattarelli’s positions and the community’s priorities, especially around schooling choices, infrastructure needs and tax concerns. They also noted appreciation for national figures who have supported causes important to the community, viewing that support as relevant to state-level alliances. For many residents, the endorsement feels like a defense of local autonomy and religious liberty.
After thanking President Donald Trump for his efforts on behalf of Israel and his fight against antisemitism, the Vaad endorsed Ciattarelli for governor, citing his alignment with the community’s concerns over schooling, infrastructure and taxes. Turning out voters, they argued, is how the community secures attention and resources from elected officials. The message is straightforward: participate and elect representatives who will protect local priorities.
The Vaad’s public statement urged residents to treat the election as a critical moment for communal influence. “Remember, your vote is your voice. Make it count for our community’s continued strength and influence.” That line is meant to drive home the link between civic engagement and policy outcomes that matter to daily life.
Ciattarelli’s campaign aims to flip New Jersey from blue to red, and endorsements like this one make that goal more tangible in tightly contested areas. Local leaders see the endorsement as an opportunity to ensure their neighborhoods get attention from whoever wins. The coordinated approach signals that when the community unites behind candidates, it can shape close elections and protect core interests.
