Mikie Sherrill Set to Make History as New Jersey's 57th Governor

Mikie Sherrill, a four-term congresswoman and ex-Navy pilot, becomes New Jersey's 57th governor. Sherrill is the second woman and the first in over sixty years from a major political party to be elected to a third consecutive term. She replaces Phil Murphy, promising reforms particularly in utility rate management.

Mikie Sherrill is poised to become the 57th governor of New Jersey, marking herself as the second woman to hold this office in the state's history. The four-term congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot decisively defeated her GOP opponent, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, in November's election.

Sherrill will begin her term with a clear mandate to address the soaring utility rates that were cornerstone issues during her campaign. Her inauguration in Newark signifies a shift from past ceremonies traditionally held along the Delaware River, highlighting her coalition's urban support base.

As Sherrill steps into office, she takes the reins from Phil Murphy, a Democrat who focused on progressive policies during his two terms, including tax reforms and educational expansions. Sherrill inherits a substantial state budget and is set to work with a Democrat-led Legislature, in a rare political continuity for New Jersey.

(With inputs from agencies.)