Analysts project the total price tag could soar past $250 million when factoring in record-breaking primary spending earlier this year. Both campaigns agreed to an $18.5 million spending cap in exchange for matching funds, though additional contributions can be used for legal and administrative expenses. Ciattarelli’s campaign has pulled in nearly $30 million, buoyed by $11 million from two Republican super PACs: Restore New Jersey and Change NJ. Kate Gibbs, executive director of the New Jersey Republican State Committee, called the contest a chance to shift the political map. The spending already surpasses the $60.5 million spent in the 2021 general election, which had been the most expensive race in New Jersey history.