TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Republican gubernatorial hopeful Jack Ciattarelli doubled down on his law enforcement platform during a meeting with Ocean County Retired Police & Fire Local 8, promising to reverse recent reforms and bolster police protections if elected.
In a post on X Tuesday, Ciattarelli detailed his proposed policies aimed at supporting New Jersey’s law enforcement community, including restoring cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for retired officers and shielding pensions. The event was held in Ocean County, a GOP stronghold where public safety remains a key voter issue.
The event hit in the heart of what has been called “Gilmore Country”, the last area of Ocean County loyalists to GOP Chairman George Gilmore, who serves as a high-paid consultant to Ciattarelli’s opponent, Bill Spadea.
“My pleasure to join members of Ocean County Retired Police & Fire Local 8 to hear from them and talk about my plans to support the law enforcement community,” Ciattarelli wrote.
Among the pledges, Ciattarelli said he would restore COLA, appoint an attorney general “that supports police,” and protect qualified immunity — the legal doctrine shielding officers from personal liability in civil suits.
Ciattarelli takes hard stance against police oversight reforms
He also outlined plans to roll back several police oversight measures implemented under Democratic leadership. Ciattarelli said he would end civilian review boards, halt the release of internal affairs records, and eliminate mandatory use-of-force reporting when a firearm is not discharged.
The use-of-force policy was expanded in recent years as part of a broader effort to increase transparency and accountability in policing. Critics of the reform say it burdens officers with excessive reporting requirements.
Ciattarelli’s statement did not provide specifics on how he would enact the rollbacks or whether legislation would be introduced. The proposals mark a clear divergence from the current administration’s criminal justice agenda.
Ciattarelli, who narrowly lost to Gov. Phil Murphy in 2021, is expected to formally announce his candidacy for the 2025 election later this year. His messaging has increasingly centered on law enforcement, public safety, and opposition to progressive criminal justice policies.
Key Points
- Jack Ciattarelli pledged to restore COLA and end civilian review boards if elected governor.
- His plan includes protecting qualified immunity and rolling back use-of-force reporting.
- He made the remarks during a meeting with Ocean County Retired Police & Fire Local 8.
Ciattarelli positions himself as pro-police candidate in early push for 2025 gubernatorial race.