In Fiery Inaugural, Sherrill Pledges to Keep New Jersey At The Forefront

By Katie Thorn and Sarah Shockey
New Jersey State House News Service

NEWARK — Mikie Sherrill was officially sworn in as the 57th governor of New Jersey on Tuesday at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the second woman to serve as governor of the Garden State and the first from the Democratic party.

Even before her nearly one hour speech, Sherrill’s friendliness was on display. She embraced numerous people who joined her on stage, including the Pledge of Allegiance presenter and National Anthem singer, before speaking to the crowd of about 2,000.

“Your stories are why, again and again, I am reminded of why I love New Jersey,” Sherrill said.

Sherrill swore her oath of office on an original copy of the U.S. Constitution kept at William Paterson University, one of 13 believed to be in existence. 

She referenced United States’ foundational documents throughout her inaugural address, including Thomas Payne’s “Common Sense,” the Constitution, and the Declaration of Independence. 

Sherrill spoke on the list of grievances against the King in that very Declaration, meant to signal parallels to President Donald Trump, the state of politics in Washington, and the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in states across the country. 

“The list of grievances in our Declaration of Independence included these charges against the king: He has refused his assent to laws,” Sherrill said. “He has obstructed the administration of justice…This election proved that the people of New Jersey recognize the parallels. That we see a president illegally usurping power,” she said. “Here, we demand people in public service actually serve the public instead of extorting money to benefit themselves and their cronies.” 

“As we see Washington trying to shut the door on opportunity, on your safety and security, on education, on healthcare, on access to good jobs, on innovation, and investments in energy and infrastructure,” said Sherrill. “As we are seeing doors shut for families, for working people, for vulnerable communities, as they attempt to roll back the tide of progress, not here.”

She also vowed for New Jersey to continue being a catalyst of progress, whether others notice or not.

“So, as the newest leader of our great state, for all these artists, battles, and innovations, I wanted to take a moment to say, “You’re welcome, America,’” Sherrill said. “And I’ll also assure you that our state will continue our great history of standing in the breach when our nation needs us.”

During her campaign, Sherrill’s main focus was rising energy costs and their effect on residents. The Navy helicopter pilot pledged to declare a state of emergency to freeze energy prices on her first day in office.

And Sherrill fulfilled her promise, signing the executive order  to freeze energy prices right on the podium.  

“And I want you to know that I will be fighting for you,” Sherrill said. “And I hope, New Jersey, you remember me when you open your electric bill and it hasn’t gone up another 20 percent.”

Sherrill wasn’t the only one sworn in. Sherrill stood alongside newly elected lieutenant governor and runningmate, Dale Caldwell. Caldwell is the first pastor sworn in as lieutenant governor in New Jersey. 

To celebrate their induction, Sherrill and Caldwell hosted a dozen events across the state over the weekend. Museums were discounted and church services were held to celebrate the inauguration and Martin Luther King Jr. day.

The celebrations will continue on Tuesday night at the Inaugural Ball which will take place at American Dream Mall.