New Jersey’s Incoming Attorney General Pledges Strong Stance on Trump Administration and Public Safety
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill appointed Jennifer Davenport attorney general, promising strong law enforcement and resident protection. Former federal prosecutor and assistant state attorney general Davenport brings public and private sector experience to her potential new position.
Davenport collaborated with Sherrill and former New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal in the US Attorney’s Office. PSE&G general counsel and DEA employee. Federal, state, and business sector expertise make her a viable candidate for New Jersey’s top law enforcement position.
Sherrill, who beat term-limited Governor Phil Murphy last month, praised Davenport’s commitment to justice and willingness to confront complex legal issues at a Rutgers University event in Newark. “Jennifer Davenport will stop at nothing to ensure justice for everyone,” Sherrill said.
Davenport emphasized law enforcement and political responsibility. Protecting children, stopping gun violence, human trafficking, affordability, and New Jerseyans from federal policies are her goals. She supports Sherrill’s campaign promise to pick an attorney general who will challenge former President Donald Trump.
Davenport will succeed Governor Murphy’s attorney general Matthew Platkin, who has challenged Trump administration policies, if confirmed by the New Jersey Senate. Platkin trusted Davenport to lead the office, calling her “one of the finest public servants I have ever known”.
Energy strategy may require caution. Sherrill wanted to freeze energy rates, but Davenport’s PSE&G history may conflict. Sherrill and Davenport say the office will treat recusals carefully and individually to maintain transparency and integrity.
Davenport’s nomination comes amid New Jersey policy disputes. Politicians are considering limiting the attorney general’s direct control over the State Police after political involvement and racial profiling probes. Sherrill said State Police superintendents will make choices, indicating caution in this sensitive topic.
Additionally, immigration policy will be problematic. The New Jersey Immigrant Trust Directive restricts federal cooperation on civil immigration but enables it on major offenses. The Immigrant Trust Act expands these rights. Davenport will make directive-related legal and policy judgments, which Sherrill supports.
Statewide, Davenport has bipartisan support. Monmouth County senators Declan O’Scanlon and Vin Gopal praised her law enforcement and public safety record. Senate Judiciary Committee members will also investigate her nomination. The ACLU of New Jersey praised Davenport’s appointment and hoped to promote criminal justice reform.
Lt. Gov.-elect Dale Caldwell was named secretary of state commissioner by the governor-elect. If confirmed by the Senate, Davenport will become attorney general on January 20 and tackle policy issues and opportunities to change law enforcement and public safety policies.
Sources:
Rutgers University public announcements
New Jersey Governor’s Office official statements
New Jersey State Senate press releases
American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey statements
