Real estate is playing a significant role in the New Jersey gubernatorial race between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli. The issue came to the forefront during a recent debate, as reported by Gothamist, when Sherrill accused her opponent of being influenced by donors facing legal action over rent-setting practices.
Sherrill stated, “not going to do anything about it because one of his biggest donors is actually being taken to court and sued on this very issue.” This comment referred to Jeff Kurtz’s Kamson Corporation, which is among ten landlords being sued by the state along with RealPage for allegedly using rent-setting algorithms in a way that state officials argue is collusive. Kamson has sought to dismiss the lawsuit.
Financial contributions from real estate interests have been notable in both campaigns. The Kurtz family has contributed over $750,000 to Ciattarelli’s campaigns since 2021, including a $200,000 donation in June to a political action committee opposing Sherrill. Kamson manages more than 10,000 units statewide and was previously scrutinized after two children died in a fire at one of its complexes.
Ciattarelli’s campaign has received more than $250,000 from the real estate industry. Sherrill’s campaign has secured over $100,000 from industry sources, including developers Steven Plofker and Chris Yegen.
Neither candidate responded to Gothamist regarding these donations.
On policy matters related to real estate, Sherrill advocates targeting negligent landlords and addressing sharp rent increases linked to software use. Ciattarelli proposes lowering property taxes and energy costs as measures for improving affordability.
A poll conducted by Emerson College Polling/PIX11/The Hill released Thursday indicates that the race remains closely contested.
