TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey’s political landscape shifted sharply this week as Rep. Mikie Sherrill announced Jennifer Davenport as her choice for the state’s next Attorney General, signaling the departure of Matt Platkin.
The nomination positions Davenport—currently First Assistant Attorney General and principal law enforcement advisor—as the next leader of the state’s powerful Department of Law and Public Safety.
Davenport, a longtime figure in state and federal law enforcement, previously held the same deputy role from 2018 to 2020 and has served in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the DEA, and private practice. Her experience spans from prosecuting federal crimes to advising state agencies, giving her a deep understanding of New Jersey’s criminal justice and regulatory systems.
Rep. Sherrill announced her pick in a social media post Tuesday, praising Davenport’s “tireless dedication to making communities safer and more affordable.” Sherrill emphasized her nominee’s record of accountability, saying Davenport will “work to lower costs and hold people accountable, from Washington to the social media companies harming our children.”
Platkin’s exit marks the end of a tenure that began in early 2022 when Governor Phil Murphy appointed him to succeed Gurbir Grewal. Platkin, a former chief counsel to Murphy, helped steer the state through the pandemic and oversaw key initiatives on gun violence prevention, police reform, and consumer protection. His departure comes amid shifting political alliances and speculation over the direction of Murphy’s administration in its final years.
Veteran prosecutor with deep state ties
Davenport’s nomination drew immediate attention from lawmakers across the aisle. Senator Andy Kim publicly supported the choice, describing her as “serious and dedicated to public service.” Kim noted he looks forward to collaborating on anti-corruption initiatives and emphasized the need to preserve the Attorney General’s independence, including oversight of the New Jersey State Police.
Before joining the Attorney General’s office, Davenport spent seven years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in New Jersey, where she rose to Chief of the General Crimes Unit. She also served as Division Counsel for the Drug Enforcement Administration and began her career as an intelligence analyst at the DEA before attending Seton Hall University School of Law.
Political implications and next steps
The announcement follows months of speculation over Platkin’s future in the Murphy administration. As a trusted insider who helped draft executive orders during the pandemic and advised Senator Cory Booker during former President Donald Trump’s first impeachment, Platkin was often seen as one of Murphy’s most influential aides. His exit opens the door for Sherrill to place a key ally in a statewide leadership role as her own political profile continues to rise.
Davenport, a Montclair resident, will require formal confirmation by the New Jersey Senate before assuming office. If approved, she would become one of the most experienced prosecutors to hold the post in recent memory, overseeing thousands of employees and leading efforts on criminal justice, consumer affairs, and civil rights.
Transition signals shifting leadership in Trenton
The transition underscores a moment of realignment in Trenton’s political power structure. With Murphy nearing the end of his second term and new Democratic leaders positioning for the next election cycle, the Attorney General’s office will remain a crucial platform for both policy enforcement and political visibility. Davenport’s expected confirmation would ensure continuity within the department while signaling a new era of leadership focused on safety, accountability, and economic fairness.
