TRENTON, N.J. — On Monday, New Jersey Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill declared her candidacy for governor, emphasizing the need to revitalize the state’s economy and make daily life more affordable for residents.
Sherrill, who previously served as a federal prosecutor and was a U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, enters a competitive Democratic race aiming to replace Governor Phil Murphy, a fellow Democrat whose tenure concludes after the upcoming election due to term limits preventing him from seeking re-election.
In her announcement video, Sherrill showcased her background, highlighting her experience as a Naval Academy alum and an accomplished pilot. She asserted the importance of leadership during crises, stating, “In a crisis, the worst thing you can do is freeze. You have to choose to lead, to follow, or get out of the way.”
Sherrill also addressed the pressing economic issues facing the state. She stated, “Let’s make life more affordable for hardworking New Jerseyans, from health care to groceries to childcare. These challenges aren’t new, and it’s time to confront them head-on.”
Since her election in 2018 during Donald Trump’s presidency, Sherrill has represented New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, which encompasses portions of Essex, Morris, and Passaic counties. She successfully flipped this previously Republican-held seat following the retirement of former Representative Rodney Frelinghuysen and has since won re-election three times.
Prior to her congressional career, Sherrill was a prosecutor for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey and served in the Navy from 1994 until 2003.
Sherrill is now among several candidates seeking the Democratic nomination, joining U.S. House colleague Josh Gottheimer, who announced his campaign last week. Other contenders for the party’s nomination include Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, teachers union president Sean Spiller, and former state Senate President Steve Sweeney.
On the Republican side, candidates are also emerging, such as state Senator Jon Bramnick, former state legislator Jack Ciattarelli, former state Senator Ed Durr, and radio personality Bill Spadea.
Should Sherrill decide to resign from her House position, state law mandates that the governor must schedule a special election if the seat becomes vacant within 70 days leading up to the election.
New Jersey, alongside Virginia, will be holding gubernatorial elections next year, marking a significant political event for both states.