The who won the New Jersey governor’s race question was finally answered on November 4, 2025, when Democratic Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill defeated Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli to become the next governor of New Jersey. Her victory secured the Democrats a rare third consecutive term in the state’s highest office, marking a major milestone in New Jersey’s political history.
Mikie Sherrill Declared Winner
Mikie Sherrill, who previously served as a U.S. Representative from New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, emerged as the clear winner of the 2025 gubernatorial election. With most precincts reporting, Sherrill secured just over 56% of the vote, while her Republican opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, trailed with approximately 43%.
Her campaign centered on economic stability, public safety, education reform, and affordability, issues that resonated deeply with New Jersey voters. By focusing on pragmatic, solutions-oriented policies rather than partisan divides, Sherrill successfully built a coalition of moderate Democrats, independents, and suburban voters who played a decisive role in her victory.
About the Candidates
Mikie Sherrill – The Democratic Winner
Before entering politics, Mikie Sherrill served as a U.S. Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor. Her disciplined, service-oriented background earned her credibility with both military families and public-sector professionals. As a congresswoman, she was known for her bipartisan approach and focus on fiscal responsibility, healthcare, and infrastructure modernization.
During the campaign, Sherrill positioned herself as a centrist Democrat—a candidate willing to work across the aisle while defending state programs such as public education and environmental protections. Her message emphasized leadership, competence, and “getting things done” for middle-class New Jersey families.
Jack Ciattarelli – The Republican Challenger
Jack Ciattarelli, a former State Assemblyman and small business owner, ran as the Republican nominee for the second time after narrowly losing to Phil Murphy in 2021. His campaign sought to capitalize on voter frustration with property taxes, inflation, and state spending. Ciattarelli promised to “make New Jersey affordable again,” aiming to appeal to working-class and suburban conservatives.
Despite strong enthusiasm among his supporters, Ciattarelli’s campaign faced challenges in expanding beyond the Republican base, particularly in densely populated northern and coastal counties where Democrats maintain strong voter registration advantages.
Historical Context
Mikie Sherrill’s victory is significant beyond party lines. It marks the first time since 1961 that the Democratic Party has held the New Jersey governorship for three consecutive terms. Outgoing Governor Phil Murphy completed two terms and was constitutionally barred from running again. Sherrill’s win ensures Democratic continuity in Trenton through at least 2029.
Additionally, Sherrill becomes only the second woman to be elected governor in New Jersey’s history, following Republican Christine Todd Whitman, who served from 1994 to 2001. Her win reflects both generational change and the increasing role of women in leadership across state and national politics.
Key Issues That Defined the Race
1. Affordability and Property Taxes
New Jersey has long struggled with some of the highest property taxes in the nation. Both candidates promised relief, but Sherrill proposed a balanced approach combining fiscal discipline with targeted tax credits for middle-income households. Her strategy appealed to moderate voters who wanted reform without deep cuts to public services.
2. Economic Development
Sherrill’s campaign highlighted the importance of small business support, innovation, and job creation. She pledged to expand the state’s technology and clean energy sectors while investing in workforce training and transportation infrastructure. Ciattarelli, by contrast, emphasized deregulation and tax reductions as a way to spur growth.
3. Public Safety and Policing
Public safety emerged as another central issue, particularly after several high-profile incidents in urban centers. Sherrill promised to increase funding for community policing and mental health programs, balancing law enforcement support with accountability measures.
4. Education and Workforce
Both candidates recognized education as a cornerstone of New Jersey’s economy. Sherrill called for increased investment in public schools and affordable college programs, while Ciattarelli advocated for parental choice and charter school expansion.
5. Abortion and Social Issues
In a post-Roe political environment, abortion rights became a defining contrast between the candidates. Sherrill pledged to safeguard reproductive rights in New Jersey, while Ciattarelli supported more restrictions, aligning with his party’s national stance.
Voter Turnout and Regional Trends
Turnout across New Jersey was robust, with high participation in suburban counties like Morris, Bergen, and Monmouth—areas that played a decisive role in determining the final outcome.
- North Jersey counties overwhelmingly supported Sherrill, driven by urban and suburban voters focused on economic stability and reproductive rights.
- South and Central Jersey counties showed stronger Republican margins, reflecting concerns about taxes and cost of living.
- However, the Democratic advantage in densely populated areas such as Essex and Hudson counties gave Sherrill a statewide lead that Ciattarelli couldn’t overcome.
The 2025 race reaffirmed New Jersey’s position as a Democratic-leaning but competitive state, where personal appeal and issue alignment often outweigh strict party loyalty.
What’s Next for New Jersey
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill will be inaugurated in January 2026, succeeding Phil Murphy. Her administration is expected to prioritize:
- Expanding affordable housing initiatives
- Reforming the state tax structure
- Accelerating renewable energy projects
- Improving transit systems and infrastructure
- Supporting small businesses and innovation hubs
Sherrill’s victory also positions her as a potential national figure within the Democratic Party. With her military background, bipartisan approach, and growing popularity among moderates, she could play a key role in shaping the future of Democratic leadership on the East Coast.
Reactions and Significance
Democrats hailed the result as a validation of their governance model—fiscally responsible yet socially progressive—while Republicans pledged to rebuild their coalition ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Political analysts noted that the result may influence strategies nationwide, especially in swing states with similar suburban voter demographics. Sherrill’s campaign demonstrated that emphasizing competence and moderation can prevail even in an era of intense partisanship.
Final Thoughts
Now that the who won the New Jersey governor’s race question is settled, New Jersey is preparing for a new chapter under Mikie Sherrill’s leadership. Her success reflects both the state’s changing demographics and a broader national appetite for pragmatic, solutions-driven governance.
With the election over, all eyes turn to how Governor-elect Sherrill delivers on her promises to make New Jersey fairer, safer, and more affordable. What are your thoughts on this historic win? Share your views and stay tuned for the next chapter in New Jersey politics.