Rep. Mikie Sherrill has secured victory in the 2025 New Jersey governor election, defeating Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli and keeping the state’s blue status. This win cements her role as the next governor of New Jersey, a position she will assume after term-limited Democratic Governor Phil Murphy steps down.
Sherrill’s campaign, which spanned the entire election cycle, focused heavily on reducing the cost of living for New Jersey families. Her platform emphasized tax relief, addressing price gouging, and lowering healthcare and energy costs. These issues are particularly relevant in a state known for its high taxes and living expenses. Additionally, Sherrill committed to protecting abortion access, increasing housing supply, and closing the educational achievement gap between well-resourced public schools and underperforming districts, especially in the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic.
As a former Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor, Sherrill’s background in public service has been a central part of her campaign. Her military and legal experience have shaped her approach to governance, emphasizing both accountability and service to the public. She has also highlighted her role as a mother of four as a way to connect with voters on a personal level.
Despite the challenges of the campaign, including legal threats and negative campaigning, Sherrill’s victory is a testament to her appeal to voters. However, the race was not without its controversies. Ciattarelli criticized her for being ‘not a centrist’ and questioned her past as a naval academy graduate, particularly after a report revealed that she was blocked from participating in her graduation due to her refusal to report classmates involved in a cheating scandal. Ciattarelli also threatened to sue Sherrill for allegedly defamatory remarks about the opioid crisis, though he did not pursue the lawsuit before the election.
The gubernatorial race was viewed as a barometer for the 2025 midterm elections, with New Jersey and Virginia being the only states to hold such contests in the year following a presidential election. These races often reflect national political trends, and with Trump’s rise in the state in 2024, the race had significant implications for the political landscape.
As preparations for her gubernatorial inauguration begin, Sherrill has not yet announced her plans to relocate to the governor’s mansion, Drumthwacket in Princeton, New Jersey. She has emphasized the need for a smooth transition, ensuring that the vacancy in her congressional seat is filled in a timely manner to maintain stability for New Jersey residents.