New Jersey Democratic Voters Rally with Barack Obama

Newark, New Jersey – Excitement ran high among Democratic voters in New Jersey on Saturday night as they gathered at a community college to support former President Barack Obama, who was there to back U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill in her gubernatorial campaign.

“I heard Obama was coming, and I love him, so that’s why I’m here,” expressed Alexis from South Jersey. “But I also think Mikie will do a great job.”

Another supporter, Robert from Spring Lake, shared his eagerness to hear Obama speak. “I think a lot of us are looking for a hopeful message, especially now,” he noted.

On the final day of New Jersey’s election season, hundreds converged around the Essex County College gym to listen to both Obama and Sherrill. The venue was packed well before the official start of the “Get Out the Vote” rally, with some supporters watching from an overflow area.

Sherrill emphasized New Jersey’s solid Democratic stance before Obama’s arrival, insisting there was no significant Republican momentum, claiming, “It’s not a purple state.”

During the rally, speakers and attendees praised Obama but also took the opportunity to criticize President Donald Trump, denouncing his immigration policies and laying blame for the ongoing government shutdown at the feet of Trump and the Republican Party.

Many voters interviewed indicated their decisions were driven not only by support for Sherrill but also as a rejection of Trump. “The biggest issue is Trump,” said Robert, adding, “He seems anti-science and anti-education. Honestly, he’s just the worst.”

Another woman from South Jersey stated, “My main goal is to remove Trump from the picture.”

Another voter remarked on Sherrill’s relatability, saying, “She understands the people. She’s not just a pawn for Trump.”

Obama didn’t shy away from criticizing Trump during his speech, mentioning how the economy appears to favor “President Trump’s billionaire friends” while ordinary families face rising costs due to Trump’s tariff policies.

“Honestly, politics feels quite bleak at the moment,” Obama said to the crowd. “There’s just so much chaos, carelessness, and outright craziness coming out of the White House.”

He didn’t just focus on Trump but also criticized gubernatorial candidate Ciatarelli, labeling him an ally of Trump and a “sniper” for the Republican Party.

Last year, Trump experienced some traction among New Jersey voters, reducing his defeat margin from 16 points in 2020 to 6 points in 2024, capturing five counties and invigorating local Republicans.

Irvington City Councilwoman Sharnette Frederick urged, “Go vote. I hope Obama will inspire you.”

Frederick has seen a surge in voter engagement whenever Obama appears, and she expects a similar outcome for the election.

Sherrill, alongside other local Democratic figures like Senator Cory Booker, took the stage to rally support, addressing voters’ main concerns while targeting the Trump administration.

Sherrill concluded by asserting, “My fight doesn’t stop at New Jersey. Trump’s policies impact us all, and we’re suffering because of it.”

2025 marks an off-year with gubernatorial elections only in New Jersey and Virginia, while other regions, such as New York City, will see mayoral and local elections.