Miki Sherrill, a candidate for governor in New Jersey, is facing criticism after it was disclosed that her two children have been admitted into the competitive Naval Academy.
In June, Sherrill’s office announced that her children, Lincoln and Margaret Hedberg, were among just nine students from her district granted admission to the Naval Academy, which has an acceptance rate of only 9%.
Senators Corey Booker and former Senator George Helmy each nominated one of their own children as well. Congressional members can recommend up to 15 candidates for each admission slot, stating, “You can have five members participating in the Navy Academy at one time,” with the option to nominate principal candidates, according to the Academy.
Critics on social media have raised questions about the simultaneous admission of Sherrill’s children given the stringent selection process.
“What are the chances?” asked a well-known right-wing social media account.
Sherrill insists there was no impropriety involved in her children’s nominations.
In response to the criticism, Sherrill said, “My children did not compete for nominations through my office to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.” She maintained that they applied through the New Jersey Senator’s office instead and emphasized that their nominations were earned individually.
It’s unclear whether either Booker or Helmy designated Sherrill’s children as their principal nominees or the extent of any influence they may have had.
Sean Higgins, Sherrill’s campaign communications director, referred to the scrutiny surrounding her children’s admissions as “a targeted attack.” He criticized the allies of her opponent, Republican Jack Ciattarelli, who has recently closed the gap in the gubernatorial race.
Recent polls indicate that Sherrill is facing tougher competition for the governor’s seat.
While nominations from legislators can facilitate entry, they do not guarantee acceptance since candidates still need to meet various academic and physical requirements.
Some parents of other recent Naval Academy cadets have defended Sherrill, noting her kindness during the nomination ceremony. One parent, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “Her daughter didn’t gain admission directly; she had to endure additional steps compared to other candidates.” This parent mentioned a preparatory program that Sherrill’s child attended.
A graduate of the Naval Academy herself, Sherrill, a mother of four from Montclair, graduated in 1994 before becoming a pilot.
Last week, her campaign faced renewed scrutiny after a report surfaced revealing that she was unable to walk with her graduating class due to a past scandal involving fraudulent practices in which her class was implicated.
Sherrill’s husband, Jason Hedberg, was also connected to a failed lawsuit that sought to block an investigation concerning him and several other students linked to the fraud case.
