Outnumbered, a political action group based in New Jersey, expressed surprise and disappointment over the lack of impact from Obama’s recent campaign efforts. The visit, which took place during a pivotal moment in the gubernatorial race, was expected to bolster Sherrill’s chances, but early polling and voter surveys show little change in the race’s momentum. Sherrill, a first-term state senator, has been running behind Republican Chris Christie in the polls, and Obama’s endorsement was seen as a major boost.
However, the response from voters has been mixed. While some have acknowledged Obama’s influence, the majority of respondents indicated that they were not swayed by the former president’s involvement. This has led to speculation that the race is increasingly being determined by factors beyond high-profile endorsements, such as local issues and candidate performance. The state’s political climate, which has historically been competitive, now appears to be at a crossroads as both camps continue to mobilize their bases.