EAST HANOVER - On his home turf Monday night, Jim Gannon got a very warm reception as he took the mic at the annual fall fundraiser of the Morris County Republican Committee.

He talked about an extensive, but enjoyable, travel schedule that brings him to places where Republicans may not normally go - black churches and Latino festivals.

"Just a lot of energy out there," said the county sheriff and of more relevance today, the Republican candidate for lieutenant governor.

Affordability is what this election is about, he told the crowd at an Italian restaurant in what is now a very Republican town. (more about that later).

Many people are struggling.

"They just can't do it anymore," he said. "You've heard the stories. All of you have heard the stories."

Gannon never has been outwardly political, an appropriate stance for a law enforcement official. Some observers were surprised when he popped up as Jack Ciattarelli's running mate two months ago, but Gannon certainly has adapted.

After attending Sunday night's debate, Gannon observed:

"The difference between the two candidates is striking."

Like Ciattarelli, Gannon contended Mikie Sherrill did not answer questions directly at the debate and also noted that "Jack" is a "Jersey Guy."

This is a big Republican talking point in this election.

It's not only that Sherrill was born in Virginia, it's that the last two Democratic governors also were born out of state - Phil Murphy in Massachusetts and Jon Corzine in Illinois.

Stressing that point, Gannon referred to Sherrill talking at the debate about securing federal money to help the "Boonton Reservoir."

Gannon said, "I think she meant the Jersey City Reservoir."

Yes, she did. But in fairness, the names are used interchangeably by many people.

This is the reservoir owned by Jersey City that spans Parsippany and Boonton. Long a local landmark, a sign on Route 46 proclaiming its ownership always includes the name of the Jersey City mayor.

Gannon also contended that Ciattarelli is ready for the Statehouse, because he has served on all levels of government - town council, freeholder and the state Legislature.

In making that point, Gannon, quite cleverly, singled out members of the audience.

For example, when talking about Assemblyman Ciattarelli, he pointed to current Assemblyman Brian Bergen. And he identified Commissioner John Krickus when talking about Ciattarelli's stint as a freeholder/commissioner in Somerset County. .
And when he talked about service as a municipal official, Gannon, naturally, introduced Mayor Joe Pannullo and other members of the East Hanover Council.

This was more notable than it may have seemed. Five years ago, Pannullo and his council likely would not have been attending this event.

They were Democrats back then. In 2023, however, the entire five-person council switched en-masse to Republican.

Gannon has to see that as a good omen.