It is an application for a mail-in ballot.
I was mailed an application as well from the NJ Republican State Committee, but in order to apply, The application must be filled out, stating exactly which election you want to apply for (general, primary, municipal, etc), and then it must be sent to the county clerk's office no later than Oct. 30th or delivered in person to the County Clerk by 3 pm on the day before the election.
It states on the application: "Once you apply for a Mail-In Ballot, you will not be permitted to vote by machine at your polling place in the same election".
I never applied, and I never received an actual mail-in ballot (and yes I'm bringing the application with me to vote). If they tell me I cannot vote, there is going to be hell.
He showed me the ballot he received. It was, indeed, an actual ballot, with candidate names and selection boxes. And he's adamant he didn't request it. For what it's worth, he's a very credible person.