Support for Mikie Sherrill’s Gubernatorial Bid
In a notable development for the New Jersey gubernatorial race, former Biden press secretary Andrew Bates and Republican communications director Terry Holt have thrown their weight behind Democrat Mikie Sherrill. They are both affiliated with the Cost Coalition, an affordability policy group, and this endorsement was revealed by Fox News Digital.
Bates and Holt highlighted significant differences between Sherrill and her opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, regarding affordability issues. In their joint statement, they praised Sherrill’s innovative approach, stating, “Mikie Sherrill has a bold idea to use the governor’s extraordinary powers to make a difference that families will feel.”
Bates has a history in the Biden administration, having served as the senior deputy press secretary during an era marked by rising health concerns for the president. Holt, on the other hand, has deep roots in Republican communication, having previously been a senior adviser to former Speaker John Boehner and working with the 2004 Bush-Cheney campaign.
The Cost Coalition aims to alleviate costs for American families and targets the national debt. They advocate for strategies and leaders who prioritize economic security.
Cost Coalition’s Critique of Trump
Since its launch in April 2025, the Cost Coalition has criticized the economic measures under President Trump. Bates and Holt expressed that his policies threaten the livelihoods of the American public, urging for a focus on affordability. The coalition also involves individuals from Kamala Harris’s campaign, including Republican strategist Austin Weatherford.
Cheryl Wednesday from the Cost Coalition warned that Washington’s policies might worsen the ongoing affordability issues faced by families, leading to rising prices for essential goods. “There’s no denying that New Jerseyans need economic relief from inflation,” she stated. This sentiment seems to resonate across party lines, aiming to prioritize working families.
In a state often criticized for its high taxes, both Sherrill and Ciattarelli have made affordability a campaign focal point. Sherrill has proposed various measures including freezing electricity rates and consolidating school districts to reduce property taxes. She is also pushing for initiatives to lower grocery costs by fostering competition among stores.
Holt and Bates reaffirmed their support by detailing Sherrill’s intentions to combat predatory pricing and streamline regulations, thus responding effectively to the needs of New Jersey residents.
In contrast, Ciattarelli, supported by Trump, emphasizes his own affordability strategies. He has criticized the rising costs of electricity and called for a more diversified energy approach including natural gas and nuclear power. Ciattarelli has also proposed tax incentives for small businesses and alleviating the tax burden on lower incomes.
Interestingly, Holt and Bates reported that they initially approached the gubernatorial debate with an open mind regarding Ciattarelli. However, they ultimately concluded his policies aligned with the problematic Washington agenda, leading them to rate him poorly.
Political Support for Sherrill
Sherrill’s campaign has garnered notable endorsements from multiple figures, including Barack Obama and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. The urgency of support is palpable as Election Day approaches.
The general sentiment among Republicans is optimistic. With Trump’s presence still powerful in the state, there’s a belief that previously deep-blue areas may swing in favor of Republican candidates.
As New Jersey heads toward the elections on Tuesday, the stakes are undoubtedly high for both candidates as they seek to win the trust and votes of the public. The outcome could heavily influence the political landscape going forward.
