New Questions Arise Over Sherrill’s Naval Academy Record as Campaign Heats Up
In a tight New Jersey governor campaign, Representative Mikie Sherrill’s nautical academy graduation status and service records are under scrutiny. After graduating and becoming a navy aviator, fresh material reveals she was blocked from walking in her 1994 graduation ceremony, raising questions about accountability, openness, and campaign practices.
Sherrill graduated and was commissioned, but the Naval Academy barred her from marching because she didn’t name cheats. For the 130-person incident, two dozen midshipmen were expelled. Sherrill denies copying or cheating, but opponents argue she broke the academy’s honor code. Supporters say she was penalized for loyalty and not “ratting out” peers.
The National Archives said a records technician leaked Sherrill’s military files substantially unredacted, sparking outrage. Standard procedures should have redacted her SSN and address from these papers. In the leak, Sherrill’s campaign accused rivals and the Trump administration of misusing federal institutions for political gain. House Democrats back Sherrill’s publication investigation request on criminal grounds.
Jack Ciattarelli, her Republican opponent, wants full disclosure. He demands Sherrill reveal her hidden Naval Academy disciplinary records to prove she did not break the honor code. He has made transparency a campaign issue and alleges her absence from the commencement ceremony is a cover-up.
Sherrill defends her military service and criticizes the records leak’s timing and character. She says the infidelity scandal happened decades before her public service and that her Navy career—including nine years as a helicopter pilot and her prized commission—shows her character and commitment.
This incident may affect people’s views of Sherrill’s personal story and campaign rhetoric as the governor’s election approaches. The dormant academy-era debate is now intertwined with privacy, political maneuvering, and character—topics expected to resonate with people in the closing stretch.
Sources
New Jersey Globe
Associated Press
Washington Post
ABC News
Fox News
