New Jersey’s Italian-American communities further cemented their Republican lean in the 2024 presidential election, with significant shifts to the right compared to 2020. In towns where Italian heritage forms a major part of the local identity, the GOP expanded its margins, reflecting broader political and cultural trends in the state.
- Fairfield, NJ (Essex County): With a population that is 53% Italian-American, Fairfield saw a dramatic Republican swing, increasing its margin from R+40 in 2020 to R+48 in 2024. Known for its tight-knit Italian-American community, the town has become a GOP stronghold even in Democratic Essex County.
- East Hanover, NJ (Morris County): In this suburban town, where 43% of the population claims Italian heritage, the Republican margin surged from R+33 in 2020 to R+41 in 2024. East Hanover exemplifies the GOP’s growing appeal in Morris County, where suburban voters continue to align with conservative values.
- Lavallette, NJ (Ocean County): On the Jersey Shore, Lavallette, with 41% of its population identifying as Italian-American, increased its Republican margin from R+27 in 2020 to R+29 in 2024. While the shift was smaller compared to other towns, Lavallette remains a Republican stronghold in Ocean County, one of the state’s most reliably red regions.
The growing Republican support in these Italian-American communities reflects statewide trends in suburban and exurban areas. Analysts attribute these gains to economic concerns, cultural conservatism, and dissatisfaction with Democratic leadership. As New Jersey remains a deeply blue state overall, these pockets of GOP strength could play a pivotal role in shaping local and congressional races in the years to come.
