Governor Booed at Hockey Game

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill faced a hostile reception from fans during a New Jersey Devils hockey game at the Prudential Center on Wednesday.

The event was significant as it also marked the return of Olympic player Jack Hughes to the NHL after his critical goal in the gold medal match against Canada on Sunday.

Sherrill attended to celebrate Hughes and other Olympians, but the crowd reacted negatively, booing her and her husband, Jason Hedberg, when it was announced that she had participated in the ceremonial puck drop.

Despite the backlash, Sherrill continued to share on social media, posting pictures of her with Hughes and other athletes celebrating their achievements. Critics, however, responded by highlighting the overwhelming booing she received.

One user expressed disbelief at the amount of boos directed at her, while another pointedly asked if everyone was booing. Sherrill has been criticized by some patriotic Americans since the 2025 campaign, especially after it came to light that she missed a Naval Academy graduation ceremony due to disciplinary issues involving a cadet.

In response, she minimized her role in the situation, mentioning that some of her classmates graduated without the ceremony but served honorably in the U.S. Navy.

Amid these controversies, the Justice Department recently filed a lawsuit against New Jersey, claiming Sherrill’s policies aimed at expanding sanctuary protections have hindered federal immigration enforcement.

Still, the crowd at the Prudential Center embraced Hughes warmly. Before the game against the Buffalo Sabres, the Devils honored all Olympians from 2026 and earlier, with Hughes receiving the loudest cheers, prompting fans to chant “USA!”

Hughes appeared emotional while addressing the audience, expressing pride in representing his team and the state. “I’m really happy that the U.S. men’s and women’s hockey teams brought gold home,” he stated, thanking his teammates for their support.