Ciattarelli Aide's Antisemitic, Anti-Gay Remarks Spark Backlash

Dr. Ibrar Nadeem, a volunteer Muslim-relations adviser to GOP New Jersey gubernatorial nominee Jack Ciattarelli, told a campaign event he wasn’t "taking money from Jews" and said the campaign wanted to ban same-sex marriage; the remarks were captured on video. Ciattarelli initially praised Nadeem onstage and touted having a Muslim adviser as part of his inner circle, drawing immediate condemnation. Democratic opponent Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Rep. Josh Gottheimer and local leaders demanded Ciattarelli denounce the comments, fire Nadeem and apologize, calling the statements antisemitic and homophobic. Ciattarelli has denied opposing same-sex marriage, defended his support for the Jewish community and Israel, accused critics of lying, and said Nadeem is not a paid campaign employee. The episode, coming as the race tightens and high-profile GOP surrogates campaign for Ciattarelli, has intensified scrutiny of his inner circle and could influence Jewish and LGBTQ voters in the closely watched contest.