NEWARK, N.J. – In a surprising, but not shocking political move, Gov. Phil Murphy has endorsed longtime ally Brendan Gill over his own lieutenant governor, Tahesha Way, in the race for Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s now-vacant congressional seat.
The announcement has quickly reshaped the Democratic field and raised questions about internal divisions in the governor’s inner circle.
The announcement reportedly came at the New Jersey League of Municipalities convention in Atlantic City.
Way, who succeeded the late Sheila Oliver as lieutenant governor and secretary of state, had been widely expected to run for the seat representing New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.
Murphy, however, made clear his loyalty remains with Gill, a close confidant and veteran political strategist who managed Murphy’s first gubernatorial campaign in 2017.
Murphy stands by longtime political ally
“As Mikie heads to Trenton, we need a new leader to keep up the fight against Donald Trump and his allies in Congress,” Murphy said in a statement. “For me, that’s Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill.”
It was Gill, who turned Murphy from a U.S. ambassador to Germany, into a two-term governor.
Murphy praised Gill’s political track record, citing his work on progressive initiatives and his role in key Democratic victories across the state. Gill, a commissioner since 2012, has also been deeply involved in county and statewide campaigns, often operating behind the scenes as a strategist for top Democrats.
Way, one of New Jersey’s most prominent Black women in public office, has not yet commented on Murphy’s endorsement.
Race to replace Mikie Sherrill intensifies, but it’s not about race anymore for Democrats
Sherrill, a rising figure in national Democratic politics, was recently elected governor, leaving her congressional seat open for a 2026 special election. The vacancy has already drawn interest from multiple North Jersey Democrats, and Murphy’s early endorsement could give Gill a crucial advantage in fundraising and establishment backing.
Key Points
- Gov. Phil Murphy endorsed Brendan Gill over Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way for Mikie Sherrill’s open congressional seat.
- Way, who succeeded Sheila Oliver, has not commented on the endorsement.
- Murphy’s move reinforces his alliance with Gill, a longtime political strategist and Essex County commissioner.