Describing it as “an easy call,” the state’s paper of record, the Star-Ledger, today backed Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli (R-16) for governor in the Republican Primary.

“Luckily for Republicans, a candidate has emerged who has at least a chance to turn this tide. He is Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, a serious thinker of unblemished integrity, and a man who has proven himself willing to break stale ideological molds to solve big problems.

“Ciattarelli, more than any candidate in either party, understands that the first job of the next governor is to wrestle down the fiscal crisis. Without that first step, New Jersey can’t improve its business climate, lighten the burden of property taxes, or pursue progressive goals like expanding access to college, or treatment for drug addicts.”

See the full endorsement here.