Federal Investigation Opens Into Mishandling of N.J. Governor Candidate Sherrill’s Military Records
A federal investigation into Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill’s unauthorized publication of military data has shook New Jersey’s close governor’s race. A Republican backer of Sherrill, Jack Ciattarelli, received largely unredacted documents from the National Archives last week. The Archives apologized.
The incident emerged as New Jersey’s governor’s election heats up. Former Navy helicopter pilot and congressman Sherrill faces a stiff campaign from veteran Republican Ciattarelli. Lawmakers and political observers are investigating how an opposing campaign obtained sensitive personal data.
U.S. House Democrats confirmed that the Archives’ inspector general will investigate to identify what went wrong and prevent future breaches. The incident highlights the risks of sharing military and personal records without sufficient security.
The investigation’s implications on the race has dominated state political discussions, but both campaigns have kept quiet. Analysts believe this incident could sway voters, highlighting government agency accountability and openness.
As the inquiry continues, the National Archives must decide how to improve record protection and prevent political use of confidential military data. The situation highlights the delicate balance between transparency, privacy, and political competition in a vital gubernatorial contest.
Sources
Official statements from U.S. House Democrats
Public records from the National Archives
