Democrat Mikie Sherrill won New Jersey’s gubernatorial election on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, delivering her party a third consecutive victory in the state — the first such streak for either party since 1961, according to the Associated Press and local outlets.
TRENTON, N.J. — U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill was elected governor of New Jersey on Tuesday, defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli and extending Democrats’ control of the statehouse to a third consecutive term — a milestone not seen since 1961. The Associated Press called the race on election night; Sherrill is set to become New Jersey’s second female governor, succeeding term‑limited Democrat Phil Murphy. (apnews.com)
In an interview published Thursday by Politico, Sherrill said skepticism about her chances was overblown and tied to lingering anxieties from the 2024 cycle. She credited an expansive field program — “the likes of which have never been seen” — and said her military background conveyed a “decisive” style that resonated with voters, including on promises to bring down energy costs. She also said she intends to work with the Trump administration to “claw back as many resources into the state of New Jersey as possible.” (Politico.) (politico.com)
Sherrill’s campaign drew energy from the recent nationwide “No Kings” protests; she appeared at events in New Jersey as demonstrations filled streets across the country in mid‑October, organizers said. (washingtonpost.com)
The victory came amid a broader night of Democratic wins. In Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger was elected governor, and in New York City, state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani won the mayor’s race, according to the Associated Press and other outlets. (apnews.com)
On MSNBC’s election‑night coverage, host Lawrence O’Donnell suggested that President Donald Trump’s demolition of the White House East Wing to make way for a new ballroom may have motivated at least some voters, citing a New Jersey voter who referenced “the White House demolition.” “Surely it sent thousands of voters to polls all around the country,” he added. (Daily Wire’s write‑up includes the clip; MSNBC has covered the controversy extensively.) (dailywire.com)
The White House began tearing down the East Wing in October as part of Trump’s plan to add a large ballroom — a move that sparked criticism from preservationists and prompted questions about the federal review process. Reporting by the Washington Post and the Associated Press detailed the scope and timing of the work and the commission oversight at issue. (washingtonpost.com)
Sherrill has framed her agenda around affordability, including utility costs and housing, themes she emphasized on the trail and at recent rallies. (insidernj.com)