Governor Mikie Sherrill says communication failures left residents stranded abroad while her administration works with federal officials to bring them home.
Trenton, NJ – Governor Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday criticized the Trump administration’s response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, saying delayed warnings and communication left some New Jersey residents stranded after commercial flights were suspended across the region.
Key Points
• Gov. Mikie Sherrill says delayed travel warnings left New Jersey residents stranded in the Middle East
• Her administration is coordinating with the White House, State Department, and federal delegation
• Residents abroad are being urged to enroll in the State Department’s STEP alert system
Sherrill, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot who served during the Global War on Terror, said the federal government failed to act quickly enough to alert Americans about the rapidly deteriorating situation.
“I know how important it is to go into any military action prepared and with a plan,” Sherrill said in a statement. “But instead of taking decisive steps to protect American citizens abroad, this administration was slow to provide proactive notifications or adjust travel warnings until many were already in a dangerous situation.”
She said the lack of early communication left families “stranded, frustrated, and potentially in danger.”
State working with federal officials on evacuations
Despite the criticism, Sherrill said her administration is actively working with federal officials to assist residents attempting to leave the region.
State officials are in contact with New Jersey residents currently stuck in the Middle East due to the suspension of commercial flights. The governor said her office is also coordinating with the White House, the U.S. State Department, and New Jersey’s congressional delegation to secure travel assistance.
“We are in active communication with the White House and State Department on behalf of our residents,” Sherrill said, adding that her administration will continue sharing updates and resources with families seeking help.
Residents urged to enroll in federal alert system
Sherrill encouraged New Jersey residents currently in the Middle East to enroll in the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which provides security updates and emergency communication from U.S. embassies and consulates.
Officials say travelers who enroll in the program receive alerts about safety conditions and guidance on evacuation assistance when necessary.
Residents needing emergency assistance were advised to contact the State Department’s emergency line at 1-202-501-4444.
Tags: mikie sherrill, new jersey politics, middle east evacuations
