A Democrat councilman in New Jersey announced he will switch parties and endorse Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli. Alpine Councilman David Kupferschmid stated the Democratic Party has become “unrecognizable,” according to reports. “The Democrat Party does not represent us anymore,” Kupferschmid said. “With my switch, I will now be the first Republican on the council in more than 20 years. I hope that this is the beginning of a resurgence for the Republican Party in Alpine where alternate voices are much needed on the governing body.”
Kupferschmid, who won election to the council in 2023 and is seeking re-election next year, cited concerns over “over-development and crime” as key issues for the town. He criticized Democratic leadership for refusing to denounce “far left radicals” while praising Ciattarelli’s “common sense message.” Ciattarelli, a third-time gubernatorial candidate, has gained traction in a state where Republicans remain a minority despite recent registration surges. Four recent polls show him narrowing the gap against Democratic challenger Sheila Oliver.
Ciattarelli’s campaign has drawn high-profile support, including Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), who joined him at a New Jersey diner to promote “affordability, opportunity, and accountability in government.” Donalds, backed by former President Trump, called the political climate in New Jersey “a wind at our back.” The GOP’s efforts have included appearances by other figures, such as Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, as the race intensifies ahead of November.
