NEWARK, N.J. — Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill joined a growing list of New Jersey Democrats Thursday in blaming President Donald Trump and GOP candidate Jack Ciattarelli for the state’s rising utility bills and economic strain, despite Democrats holding full control in Trenton for the past eight years.
Those rate hikes were approved before Trump took office and have been increasing each year at a growing rate annually under Governor Phil Murphy.
Sherrill, who is running to succeed Gov. Phil Murphy, pointed to national Republican policies as the source of the state’s energy problems. “Utilities have skyrocketed in New Jersey and they’re only set to grow with Trump’s catastrophic budget supported by my opponent @Jack4NJ,” Sherrill posted on X.
Her remarks come as New Jersey residents continue to face some of the highest costs in the nation, including in taxes, gasoline, energy, and insurance. Critics note that Democrats have led the state government since 2018, controlling both the executive and legislative branches.
Sherrill’s comments align with those made recently by U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, U.S. Sen. Andy Kim, and Gov. Phil Murphy, who have each linked current cost-of-living issues to Republican influence at the federal level.
Republicans have pushed back on the narrative, pointing to years of Democratic leadership in Trenton and questioning attempts to shift blame ahead of the November election.
