Republican gubernatorial nominee Jack Ciattarelli says that states like Pennsylvania, the Carolinas and Delaware are “eating [New Jersey’s] lunch” economically.

Using the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop, Ciattarelli said if elected he would declare "economic war" on New Jersey's neighbors. He says he wants New Jersey to be more economically competitive.

"I'm of the opinion that economically speaking we are dying a slow death. And so it is my intention, if I have the privilege and honor of serving the people of New Jersey, for two terms to be recognized as the most pro-business governor New Jersey has ever had,” Ciattarelli said.

The Republican said he would cut New Jersey's corporate business tax in order to make businesses relocate to New Jersey and businesses that come to New Jersey from New York City incentives. He also said he would freeze the property taxes 65 years and older pay and additionally make retirement income immune from taxation like Pennsylvania does.

The liberal group New Jersey Policy Perspective says cutting the corporate business tax would cost $2 billion. Ciattarelli had few answers as to how he would pay for the loss of revenue.

During his administration, Gov. Phil Murphy has used a combination of tax incentives to lure businesses to New Jersey but also what he says is rebuilding the middle class in order to provide a base for New Jersey's economic expansion.

Murphy also announced on Thursday a plan for universal Pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds.

Ciattarelli said he doesn't oppose Murphy’s plan, but would create a voucher program to allow parents to send their children to pre-K.