Sacco Endorses Republican Ciattarelli, Reversing Years of Democratic Allegiance

Mayor Nicholas Sacco endorsed Republican Jack Ciattarelli for governor at North Bergen’s annual Mayor’s Ball, marking a sharp departure from decades of support for Democratic candidates and contradicting his own past criticisms.

“This evening, I am proud to stand alongside Jack Ciattarelli at our annual Mayor’s Ball to formally endorse his candidacy,” Sacco said. “The welfare and well being of our North Bergen residents are more important than party lines.”

Sacco cited state funding cuts as the reason for the shift. “North Bergen has faced significant challenges in recent years, losing critical state funding and aid despite our ongoing appeals for support. Jack has been consistently responsive and pledged to stand with North Bergen.”

His endorsement triggered criticism from Democratic officials, including Hudson County Democratic Organization Chair Craig Guy, who condemned Ciattarelli’s past remarks about public workers. “It makes me angry to see gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli dismiss the sacrifices made by police and fire,” Guy said, referencing a video in which Ciattarelli stated that municipal police are “more than well-paid” and accept risks “of their own free will.”

Sacco’s endorsement also represents a stark reversal from past campaign messaging. During his 2019 re-election campaign, Sacco’s team attacked challenger Larry Wainstein for previously endorsing Republican Gov. Chris Christie. “While Larry Wainstein was sucking up to Chris Christie and endorsing his campaign for Governor, Nick Sacco was standing up to the state’s biggest bully and fighting for our Democratic values,” spokesperson Wendy Martinez said at the time.

Sacco’s past endorsements include Democrats Jon Corzine in 2009, Buono in 2013, and Phil Murphy in 2017 and 2021.

Sacco spokesperson Philip Swibinski emphasized the mayor’s bipartisan approach to local governance. “Mayor Sacco’s ticket has always included members of both political parties,” Swibinski said, noting that former Commissioner Frank Gargiulo previously chaired the local Republican Party, a role now held by Pascual. “Mayor Sacco is a proud, lifelong Democrat and he respects the views of his fellow Commissioners and their right to support the candidate of their choice.”