New Jersey voters show early support for Sherrill while signaling pragmatism on Trump.
Madison, NJ – A new Fairleigh Dickinson University poll shows New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill entering office with strong approval ratings, giving her early political momentum as she begins negotiations on her first state budget. The survey found that 58 percent of voters approve of her job performance, a notable increase compared to her predecessor’s standing late in his tenure.
The poll indicates Sherrill is benefiting from broad early support across key voting groups, including independents and even some Republicans. Her approval numbers significantly exceed those of former Governor Phil Murphy, whose ratings remained in the 40 percent range for much of his second term.
“Sherrill is getting what no politician on the national level gets these days: the benefit of the doubt,” said Dan Cassino, executive director of the FDU Poll. “Independents, and even some Republicans, have nothing bad to say about her yet, and that approval is political capital in her talks with the legislature.”
Strong support across party lines
Key Points
- Governor Mikie Sherrill holds a 58% approval rating in early polling
- Support includes 88% of Democrats and 22% of Republicans
- Voters are divided on whether she should work with President Trump
Support among Democratic voters remains especially high, with 88 percent approving of her performance. The poll also shows 50 percent approval among independents and 22 percent among Republicans, reflecting a broader base of early backing than typically seen in a polarized political climate.
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However, the data suggests these numbers may shift as policy decisions become more contentious. “As the governor starts having to make tough choices, these numbers are going to go down,” Cassino said. “The question is what Sherrill does with her high support while she has it.”
Voters split on cooperation with Trump
The poll also examined how voters view Sherrill’s approach to working with President Donald Trump amid early policy clashes. Results show 42 percent of voters believe she should work with Trump, while 31 percent say she should oppose him through legal or political means. Another 26 percent said the approach should depend on the issue.
“Voters in New Jersey may not like Trump very much, but they’re pragmatic,” Cassino said. “The fact that they’re volunteering a conditional response about working with the President tells us that they want to see cooperation when it’s possible.”
The survey also found a decline in voters identifying as part of the MAGA movement, dropping from 27 percent in early 2024 to 16 percent כיום, signaling a shift in the state’s political landscape as Sherrill begins her term.
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