NEWARK - Mikie Sherrill went back to Essex County today after last night's debate, where Democratic State Party Chairman LeRoy Jones awaited with a thumbs up.

And a jab for Jack.

Ot two.

In addition to objecting to Jack Ciattarelli's debate remarks, Jones targeted a Jersey's Best Podcast statement the Republican gubernatorial nominee made about New Jersey's cities: "And once you get outside our major urban centers, our most rural communities are just magnificent."

Said Jones:

“Jack Ciattarelli’s obsession with Donald Trump is one thing, but not enough people know how much contempt he holds for our cities – or our vibrant Black and Hispanic communities. Jack Ciattarelli still hasn’t learned after ten years of failing to get elected governor that whoever leads this state needs to fight for every single one of its residents. Mikie will do that, and Jack can take his helicopter ride back to Bedminster whenever he wants after we send him packing for the third time in a row.

"This is the epitome of racism and hypocrisy. He visits our black and brown barbershops, beauty salons, and our cultural festival for photo opts. He says one thing in our community and returns to the suburbs with a totally different conversation. All for his own warped political gain."

Added the State Party Chairman: "Shame on him!"

InsiderNJ also caught up with Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo: