At the Crossroads of Policy & Industry: Gubernatorial Candidates Address NJ Manufacturing
At the 13th annual ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day, the stakes were high — not just for the event, which broke attendance records and buzzed with energy, but for the future of the industry itself. For the first time in the event’s history, New Jersey’s manufacturing community had the opportunity to hear directly from both gubernatorial candidates: Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and former State Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli.
Moderated by Dr. Benjamin Dworkin of Rowan University, these fireside chat-style interviews brought meaningful attention to the future of workforce development, business incentives, infrastructure, and innovation in manufacturing.
This rare, side-by-side platform emphasized that no matter the party affiliation, manufacturing remains a bipartisan priority in New Jersey. Both candidates showcased their vision and commitment to ensuring the industry thrives; a promising sign for the thousands of manufacturers and workers that power the state’s economy.
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill: Strengthening Workforce & Cutting Barriers
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, a Navy veteran and former federal prosecutor, brought a focused and practical tone to her remarks. She emphasized that the state’s long-term competitiveness depends on ensuring its workforce keeps pace with innovation and that opportunity remains accessible across every sector.
“Having this skilled, high-end workforce in New Jersey is so critical to our economy here. We run one of the most high-end workforces in the nation… And so, with the workforce, I think we need to continue to drive in all opportunities because the workforce is going to be changing.” – Mikie Sherrill
Sherrill also acknowledged that the manufacturing community faces ongoing challenges with costs and bureaucracy, and she pledged to take direct action to improve the business climate.
“Permitting and approvals for new facilities take too long. Costs and fees that you pay are too high. And your energy costs are now skyrocketing. That’s unacceptable. And that’s what I’m going to change as governor.” – Mikie Sherrill
Her remarks reflected a vision for a more agile, responsive New Jersey — one that reduces red tape, empowers employers, and equips workers with the skills needed to drive lasting growth.
Jack Ciattarelli: Building a Pro-Business Foundation
Former State Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, a longtime entrepreneur, spoke with conviction about restoring New Jersey’s reputation as a state that values its business community. His message was clear: government must be an ally, not an obstacle, for manufacturers striving to grow and compete.
“We’re the only state government in the country that doesn’t have a Department of Commerce. We’re going to have a Department of Commerce under Governor Ciattarelli … These state agencies will not be a police state or a collection agency or delay you. They will be partners.” – Jack Ciattarelli
Ciattarelli also outlined a clear plan to strengthen New Jersey’s competitiveness by modernizing its tax structure and promoting predictable conditions for business growth.
“I’m going to try like hell, and working in partnership with the legislature, to cut our business tax from the highest in the nation — eleven and a half — down to five over a five-year period. That’s exactly what they’re doing in Pennsylvania.” – Jack Ciattarelli
His remarks underscored his commitment to pragmatic, pro-growth reforms — positioning manufacturing as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s economic revitalization.
A Unified Focus on Manufacturing’s Future
The presence of both candidates at ‘MADE in NJ’ Manufacturing Day underscored a critical truth: New Jersey’s manufacturing community is being heard.
Each speaker brought a unique approach and perspective to the conversation, but both were united in one key area — manufacturing is essential to New Jersey’s future, and the state’s next governor must prioritize policies that support its success.
We are grateful to Congresswoman Sherrill and Mr. Ciattarelli for lending their time and insights to the event. Their willingness to engage directly with industry leaders is a clear demonstration that manufacturing matters and that bipartisan support will play a central role in its continued growth.