TRENTON, NJ — In a recent session of the U.S. House of Representatives, New Jersey gubernatorial candidates Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D) and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D) notably skipped the vote on the Laken Riley Act, a bill aimed at deporting undocumented immigrants convicted of certain crimes. However, both representatives were present to vote against a proposed bill that would restrict biological males from competing in female sports.
Jack Ciattarelli, a Republican candidate for New Jersey Governor, criticized the absence of Sherrill and Gottheimer on the Laken Riley vote, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “@Josh4Jersey & @MikieSherrill couldn’t be bothered to show up for the Laken Riley bill to deport dangerous criminals, but they sure found their way to the Capitol today to vote against bipartisan protections for women & girl’s sports. Young women deserve fair athletic competition. New Jersey deserves better than these two pandering politicians. It’s just common sense.”
The Laken Riley Act, named after a young woman killed by an undocumented immigrant, has stirred significant debate, with supporters arguing it’s crucial for public safety while critics see it as a move towards mass deportations. Sherrill and Gottheimer’s absence from this vote has been met with criticism from both sides of the political spectrum in the context of their gubernatorial campaigns.
The bill concerning sports participation, which would prevent biological males from competing in women’s sports, faced opposition from Sherrill and Gottheimer.
This stance has been contentious, with advocates for the bill arguing it ensures fairness in women’s sports, while opponents argue it marginalizes transgender athletes.
Both bills passed in Congress with bi-partisan support with both Democrats and Republicans supporting each bill.
