TRENTON, NJ — Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli issued a public appeal Friday urging Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matt Platkin to fully empower law enforcement ahead of a weekend of anti-law enforcement protests scheduled across New Jersey.
Citing recent unrest seen in cities like Los Angeles and New York, Ciattarelli warned of the potential for similar incidents in New Jersey if proper measures are not taken. “With anti-law enforcement protests planned across NJ—let’s not have here what we’ve seen in LA & NY,” Ciattarelli stated. “I’m calling on Governor Murphy, his AG, and my opponent Mikie Sherrill to condemn anything other than peaceful protests and allow law enforcement to do their jobs to ensure public safety.”
In his statement, Ciattarelli specifically called on state leaders to “proactively take the handcuffs off our law enforcement professionals at every level,” emphasizing the need for full coordination between state police, county sheriffs, and local police departments.
“My message to Governor Murphy and Attorney General Platkin is clear: give law enforcement the full authority and flexibility they need to prevent violence, maintain order, and protect both demonstrators and the general public,” Ciattarelli said. “We do not want to see in New Jersey what has sadly occurred elsewhere.”
Ciattarelli also directly addressed his Democratic opponent, Mikie Sherrill, urging her to join him in calling for peaceful demonstrations. “At the same time, I urge my opponent, Mikey Sheryl, to join me on calling on all remain peaceful and condemn any unlawful behavior. My hope is she’ll join me,” he said.
Protests are planned at multiple locations across the state. While officials have not indicated any specific threats of violence, law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring the situation and preparing for large crowds.
Neither Governor Murphy’s office nor Attorney General Platkin’s office have publicly responded to Ciattarelli’s request. Sherrill has not yet issued a statement regarding the matter.
Ciattarelli’s comments come as law enforcement agencies brace for demonstrations amid heightened public scrutiny of police across the nation.
