Sherrill surprised by elephant request at boardwalk stand, jokes go viral online
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill was met with an unexpected moment on the Jersey Shore boardwalk this week when a young girl who had just won a prize asked for an elephant — a symbol typically associated with the Republican Party.
Sherrill, who is running against Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the 2025 governor’s race, was volunteering at a boardwalk game booth when the exchange occurred.
“Oh, there’s our winner. Any of the big prizes. Which one would you like?” Sherrill asked the girl, who responded, “An elephant.” Sherrill replied, “Oh, my gosh. Good choice. Thank you. Good choice.”
The moment, captured on video and widely shared online, quickly sparked a flurry of memes and jokes about political symbolism. Some users poked fun at the Democrat giving away a Republican mascot. But the situation took a turn when Sherrill handed over a blue-colored elephant — prompting smiles and laughter.
“Here’s a blue elephant,” Sherrill told the girl. “I usually am a fan of donkeys, but for you, an elephant.”
The incident concluded with applause and cheers from onlookers. “Have a great one, guys,” Sherrill added as the girl walked off holding her prize.
Political observers noted the lighthearted moment brought rare levity to an otherwise heated gubernatorial race, which has centered on issues like affordability, taxes, and transit.
“At least it’s blue,” Sherrill joked, defusing the moment with a nod to her party’s color.