New Jersey’s Democratic governor faced loud boos when she was introduced at the New Jersey Devils vs. Buffalo Sabers game on Wednesday night.
The crowd’s reaction to Gov. Mikie Sherrill was recorded at the Prudential Center in Newark, where the Devils celebrated the U.S. Olympic hockey team’s gold medalists, including New Jersey’s own Jack Hughes. The New York Post reported on this the following day.
Sherrill was present for the ceremonial puck drop and to pass the state flag to Hughes. Footage showed both her and her husband being introduced.
As Sherrill made her way onto the ice, the stadium erupted in a chorus of boos, amidst a backdrop of American flags and videoboards.
Quick reactions surfaced on social media regarding the raucous crowd. One user remarked on New Jersey’s political climate, saying, “It’s not as blue as people believe. It’s just very corrupt.”
Another user opined, “Those fans truly voiced what real America feels. The boos aimed at Democrats felt genuine.” A different comment noted a shift towards American patriotism, stating, “It’s great to see more change in that direction.”
Additional video captured the moment she was booed:
According to reports, the U.S. Hockey team clinched the gold medal against Canada at the Winter Olympics, marking their first win since 1980, celebrating later with Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue.”
Hughes scored the decisive goal in overtime and expressed his love for the country after the victory.
“This is really about our country right now. I love America, my teammates, and the support from the American hockey community is immense. I’m incredibly proud to be an American,” he said.
On that night, Hughes told the crowd he felt honored to represent the New Jersey Devils and the state, which drew loud cheers.
Reports indicated that Hughes and his teammates met with the President prior to the State of the Union address on Tuesday.
“We are proud to represent the United States, and it’s a significant moment when we get to visit the White House and meet the president. We take pride in being Americans,” Hughes stated.
Sherrill’s office shared a photo from the game on social media to congratulate Hughes.
However, many users quickly pointed out the unwelcoming reception Sherrill received.
One comment read, “I don’t see you receiving support. Nobody I know voted for you. You get blasted every time you post and even get booed at hockey games. Who voted for you? What’s going on?” Another added, “You posted a photo instead of a video for a reason. You were booed by the whole crowd.”
