UPDATE: In a significant ruling, the New Jersey Election Law Commission has cleared Jack Ciattarelli to sue Mikie Sherrill for defamation over comments made during their gubernatorial debate. The decision, announced on October 27, 2025, allows Ciattarelli to pursue legal action without violating state campaign finance laws.
During the heated debate on October 8, Sherrill accused Ciattarelli of profiting from the opioid crisis, stating, “He made his millions by working with some of the worst offenders and saying that opioids were safe.” This accusation points to Ciattarelli’s involvement with Galen Publishing, a company he co-founded, which reportedly earned $12.2 million from contracts promoting opioid education materials.
Ciattarelli’s campaign attorney, Mark Sheridan, expressed that Ciattarelli believes he was defamed and is determined to pursue this claim. The controversy centers around allegations that the materials produced by Galen Publishing minimized the dangers associated with opioid use, a topic that has become increasingly sensitive amid the ongoing opioid crisis affecting countless families across New Jersey.
Sherrill’s campaign responded aggressively, with communications director Sean Higgins stating, “Jack has yet to deny his role in fueling the opioid epidemic.” He criticized Ciattarelli’s lawsuit as a means to silence important discussions about his business practices, emphasizing the human cost of the opioid crisis affecting thousands in the state.
The implications of this lawsuit are profound, especially with the New Jersey gubernatorial election approaching on November 4. As the candidates battle for votes, this legal clash could sway public opinion, particularly among voters concerned about the opioid epidemic’s impact on their communities.
This lawsuit not only highlights the contentious relationship between the candidates but also sheds light on the broader issue of accountability in the pharmaceutical industry. Ciattarelli’s involvement in the opioid narrative is under scrutiny, and how he responds to these allegations could prove pivotal in the upcoming election.
As this story develops, all eyes will be on how Ciattarelli navigates the legal process while campaigning in the final days leading up to the election. Voters will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how this lawsuit unfolds and its potential impact on their choice at the polls.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent legal battle and its implications for the New Jersey gubernatorial race.
