MIKE CATALINI & STEVE PEOPLES Associated Press

LAWRENCEVILLE — Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli sparred over the economy, President Donald Trump’s leadership and political division as they faced off Sunday night for the opening debate in New Jersey’s high-stakes governor’s race .

It was a combative affair for much of the night.

Ciattarelli repeatedly cast his opponent as dishonest and vague, and Sherrill questioned the former CEO’s math skills and fealty to Trump. People in the crowd shouted insults at times and had to be hushed by the moderator.

Security was tight at the town hall-style debate at Rider University, which played out shortly after the memorial for slain conservative leader Charlie Kirk in Arizona.

The tense national climate looms over the co

See Full Page