Melinda Ciattarelli will not seek a seat in the United States Senate this year but will form a non-profit group to discuss issues she is passionate about.
“My morals, principles, and values have spoken for themselves throughout the years in public view,” Ciattarelli said. “I feel I can make more of a difference away from the nastiness of a political campaign.”
The decision of Ciattarelli, who is separated from her husband, gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli, comes five days after she filed letters of intent to compete for organization lines at Republican conventions in Hunterdon and Somerset counties.
“At this point in my life my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my family are my priority. I have always focused on the wants and needs of others, especially those I care about the most,” she said. I want to make a difference in the lives of others in a respectful, caring way.”
Instead of running for office, Ciattarelli is founding United for Impact, a 501(c)(4) foundation to work on issues like mental health, women empowerment, boundaries, abuse, bullying, self-esteem, and drug abuse. She also wants to safeguard people from “the detrimental impact of bullying, both online and offline.”
“In an era where bullying has evolved beyond traditional boundaries, the foundation will emerge as a beacon of hope and defense for everyday victims. The foundation’s mission will be to empower citizens to intervene when Congress lacks the motivation or agility to enact laws that adequately shield individuals from the effects of bullying. Through a multifaceted approach, the foundation will aim to raise awareness, provide support systems, and advocate for comprehensive anti-bullying measures.”
Ciattarelli had stepped up her attendance at public events last spring and spent more than a month actively testing the waters for a Senate bid.
Her withdrawal leaves Mendham Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner and four minor candidates in the Republican nomination for the seat of Democrat Bob Menendez, who was indicted last September on bribery and conspiracy charges.
Curtis Bashaw, a real estate developer and hotelier from Cape May County, filed with the Federal Election Commission to seek the GOP Senate nomination but has not formally entered the race. Former News 12 New Jersey reporter Alex Zdan has taken steps toward running, submitting letters of intent to seek organizational support in Hunterdon and Somerset.
Ciattarelli is the third GOP Senate candidate to drop so far: Shirley Maia-Cusick ended her Senate after spending roughly $200,000 and is now seeking the GOP nomination for Congress in the 3rd district; and former Andover Regional School District Board of Education member Daniel Cruz said this week that he was ending his campaign, stepping back from politics, and attending law school.
Republican political consultant Steve Kush, who had been advising Ciattarelli, said it was a personal decision.
“She’s doing what she believes in her heart is best for her and her family,” Kush said.