Jack Ciattarelli, the Republican nominee for governor in New Jersey, speaks to supporters at a diner in Saddle Brook, N.J. on Oct. 15, 2025. (Paul Steinhauser/Fox News)
In his post Monday, Ciattarelli said Kean set the standard for effective leadership.
"Now it’s our turn to bring that kind of government back," he said. "Let’s get out and vote for real change, real results, and a brighter future for New Jersey."
Before becoming governor, Kean served in the New Jersey Assembly, where he became the youngest speaker in state history. As governor, he pushed major education reforms, strengthened environmental protections, and promoted the slogan "New Jersey and You: Perfect Together."
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Representative Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat from New Jersey, during an interview in New York, US, on Friday, May 2 (left). Jack Ciattarelli, Republican candidate for governor of New Jersey, speaks during an election night event in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey, U.S., on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021, (right). (Victor J. Blue/Getty Images (left); Mark Kauzlarich/Getty Images (right))
He won re-election in 1985 with nearly 70% of the vote, one of the largest margins in state history. After leaving office, he became president of Drew University, where he oversaw significant growth in funding and facilities.
Later in his career, then-President George W. Bush appointed Kean in 2002 to chair the 9/11 Commission. His bipartisan leadership on the panel elevated him to national prominence and cemented his reputation as one of New Jersey’s most respected public figures.
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New Jersey and Virginia are the only states that hold gubernatorial elections the year after a presidential race, contests that often draw national attention as early tests of voter sentiment ahead of the midterms.
Fox News Digital’s Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report.
Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/former-governor-breaks-years-political-silence-make-major-announcement-pivotal-race