TRENTON, N.J. — Rep. Mikie Sherrill confirmed in an interview that Governor Phil Murphy will campaign on her behalf as she runs for governor, saying his record on school and pension funding can help connect with voters across New Jersey.
“Certainly there are areas where, whether it’s the pension fund or school funding, I think he’s really made some important decisions in some key areas,” Sherrill said, while also emphasizing that she plans to take the state in a different direction on several key issues.
Sherrill stressed her independence from Murphy, rejecting the label “Murphy 2.0” and drawing contrasts on housing policy, utility costs, and healthcare. “I really think we’ve got to do more to build houses,” she said, citing a 50% rise in housing prices over the past five years and one of the lowest housing inventories in the country.
In addition to state issues, Sherrill said the race would be shaped by national dynamics, including federal budget decisions she says directly impact New Jersey. She criticized her Republican opponent Jack Ciattarelli for his alignment with President Donald Trump, and for underestimating the local impact of federal legislation.
Sherrill says Murphy’s support will help highlight Democratic policy wins while her campaign will focus on driving down costs and breaking from entrenched interests.