Republican New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli dismissed the possibility that President Donald Trump’s endorsement will weigh him down in the general election, insisting the state is “not deep blue” when electing a governor.

Early voting for the state’s primary elections began on Tuesday. Ciattarelli is seeking the nomination after losing the 2021 general election against Gov. Phil Murphy (D-NJ) by 3 points. Trump gave his endorsement to Ciattarelli in May. The candidate was asked on Tuesday if there is any concern that the Democratic Party’s gubernatorial nominee could use this against him.