Ciattarelli joins call to move ’25 primary election date

Jack Ciattarelli has become the latest gubernatorial contender to call for the rescheduling of New Jersey 2025 primary election to obviate a conflict for observant Jews observing the Shavuot.

In a letter to Gov. Phil Murphy and legislative leaders, Ciattarelli suggested next year’s primary be held one day later, on Wednesday, June 4.

“I think we can all agree that practicing one’s religion should never force someone to be excluded or limited in any way from an opportunity to participate in our democracy,” he said.

On Monday, four other candidates for governor — Democrats Josh Gottheimer, Mikie Sherrill, Steve Sweeney, and Republican Jon Bramnick — signed a letter asking that the primaries be moved.  Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop also supports moving the primary date.

Support from the candidates comes after a large group of Jewish leaders called for moving the primary date to avoid the possible disenfranchisement of some voters.

Observant Jews are not permitted to use electronic devices, write, drive, or travel on Shavuot, which begins at sundown on June 1 and ends on June 3 at 9:14 PM.

Murphy has said he’s open to the idea, and Senate President Nicholas Scutari told the New Jersey Globe yesterday that “talks are underway” to consider moving the primary.

New Jersey had a Wednesday election this year: a special election to elect a new Member of Congress in New Jersey’s 10th district.