New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat, declined to endorse Zoran Mamdani, who is running for mayor in New York City, during a recent forum. “I’m not involved in that race because I’m completely focused on New Jersey. I’m going to let the people in New York decide that,” she stated at the Governor’s Forum hosted by PIX11 News.
Sherrill emphasized that residents of New Jersey frequently discuss the pressing issues they face, such as the rising costs of healthcare, electricity, and housing. “They’re worried about the freezing of the gateway tunnel,” she added.
As the discussion continued, anchor Danman Narino observed that mayoral elections in New York City are gaining national attention, which feeds into the dynamics affecting New Jersey’s Governor Phil Murphy, given the term limits for races there.
Sherrill reiterated her focus, saying, “Again, I’m concentrating on New Jersey. This is a New York race. I’m not registered to vote there, so my attention is here.” Her stance differs from some New Jersey Democrats who believe the New York City mayoral race should remain in the hands of New Yorkers. Her opponent, however, has criticized her for this position, claiming it reveals her weaknesses.
Jack Ciattarelli, the GOP candidate for governor, has previously noted in interviews that Sherrill is reluctant to take sides in the mayoral contest.
Mamdani, for his part, expressed his strong support for Sherrill when he spoke with PIX11 News in August, affirming his backing as she aims for the New Jersey governorship.
Sherrill’s recent comments, particularly her hesitance to publicly support Mamdani, are reflective of a growing divide within the party. Last month, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced her backing for democratic socialists, while prominent figures like Senator Chuck Schumer and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have withheld their endorsements.
Republicans have sought to elevate Mamdani’s candidacy to a national issue, attempting to tie him to vulnerable Democratic incumbents across the nation facing re-election challenges.
