Josh Gottheimer, a five-term Democratic congressman, has kicked off his New Jersey governor campaign with a punch — literally and digitally. In his first TV ad, Gottheimer steps into a boxing ring against former President Donald Trump, using artificial intelligence to bring the dramatic scene to life.
The ad, backed by a multimillion-dollar buy, makes it clear: Gottheimer wants voters to see him as a fighter for New Jersey families. It shows a young Gottheimer in boxing gloves while a narrator calls him “a born fighter.” A small disclaimer, “AI Generated Imagery,” flashes on the screen, signaling the use of digital tools to create the visuals.
AI-Powered Ad Showcases Gottheimer’s Campaign Focus
Throughout the spot, the congressman highlights his long record of fighting for key issues. He points to his work protecting Medicare and Social Security under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. He also mentions passing major infrastructure and gun safety laws during his time in Congress.
The scene then cuts back to the boxing ring. As the AI-generated Trump and Gottheimer clash, the narrator declares Gottheimer is “fighting for Jersey to stop Donald Trump’s tariffs and chaos.” The ad builds momentum around the idea that Gottheimer isn’t just fighting Washington politics — he’s ready to take on Trump’s influence too.
In a direct-to-camera moment, Gottheimer pledges: “As governor, I’ll cut property taxes by 15%, lower taxes for seniors, and drive down costs.” He adds, “It’s not impossible. I’ll fight to get it done and always have your back.”
New Jersey’s Democratic Primary Heats Up
The early release of this ad shows how competitive the New Jersey governor’s race has already become. Gottheimer is up against several heavyweight Democrats, including Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, former state Sen. Steve Sweeney, and teachers’ union leader Sean Spiller.
Spending is skyrocketing. According to AdImpact, more than $36 million has already been poured into ads, with the pro-Gottheimer super PAC Affordable New Jersey responsible for a third of it.
In a statement to NBC News, Gottheimer said: “I’ll battle Trump when he messes with Jersey families and fight to get taxes and costs down. I’m ready to go as many rounds as it takes.”
This year’s New Jersey governor’s race, alongside Virginia’s, promises to be one of the most closely watched political contests. Although Trump gained ground in New Jersey during the last election, he still lost the state by six points. Democrats hope to widen that gap, and Gottheimer is betting that a fighting image — backed by AI — will help lead the charge.
