Obama Rallies Support for Mikie Sherrill in Newark, Urges New Jersey Voters to Reject Trump-Backed Ciattarelli
Obama visited New Jersey this weekend to help Democratic governor candidate Mikie Sherrill in one of the state’s closest races. Obama told a roaring crowd at Essex County College in Newark that Sherrill is a strong, principled leader who can lead the state through tough times. He also accused her Republican opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, of being too Trump-friendly.
Obama, flanked by hundreds of passionate fans, said Sherrill “worth being excited about” due to her military service, federal prosecutor expertise, and legislative record. He said, “New Jersey needs a governor who can think for himself and serve the people, not politicians from Washington.”
The parties made their last push to sway hesitant voters days before Election Day. Democrat Phil Murphy is resigning after two terms. His successor will be a national story affecting both parties.
The Democratic Party used Obama’s visit to boost voter turnout in recent days. He flew to Newark to help Sherrill after helping Abigail Spanberger in Virginia. Democrats need momentum now, when Republicans are enthusiastic about Trump’s comeback, as his two events showed.
Obama commended Sherrill’s leadership and work ethic, notably her family-public responsibility balance. “She has shown strength and purpose to lead,” said. The former president advised voters to choose “a governor who will lead with compassion and common sense” over “the chaos and recklessness that have come to define Republican politics.”
Sherrill vowed to help working people pay bills and plan for the future at the Newark gymnasium, which was exciting. She added that every New Jersey family “deserves a fair shot at building a life here.” Her first day in office, she urged declaring a state of emergency to combat growing living and energy costs.
Obama made fun of Ciattarelli openly. He couldn’t understand how the Republican candidate gave Trump a “A” after years of political turbulence. I know prices are high, but an A? Obama laughed, “That’s a stretch. He warned that Trump-like politicians will worsen matters.
Triple governor candidate and state assemblyman Ciattarelli relied on Trump. Trump held a phone rally to praise Ciattarelli and say the election was crucial to his political ambitions. Conservatives like the notion, but in a state with more Democrats and moderate independents, it’s problematic.
Sherrill leads most polls as the campaign approaches. Ciattarelli’s campaign has focused on the state’s moral and economic future, taxation, affordability, and Democratic opposition.
Obama’s first visit to New Jersey since 2021, when he backed Murphy’s tight win over Ciattarelli. His comeback illustrates how tough the campaign is and how determined the party is not to underestimate votes, say Democratic strategists.
Senator Cory Booker and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka commended Sherrill at the rally as a candidate who could unite New Jersey despite its political conflicts. “This election is about the soul of our state,” Booker urged his fans, encouraging record turnout.
Obama closed his speech with a passionate appeal to action as the crowd cheered and waved campaign placards. And “New Jersey, this is your chance to send a message.” Leadership builds, not destroys. Choose a governor who shares your goals.
Sherrill finished the Newark meeting by praising Obama and her supporters. She said, “Our fight isn’t just about one election.” “Doing the right thing, protecting New Jersey families, and shaping our kids’ future.”
Both campaigns should work more statewide before Election Day. New Jersey is wealthy, has strong fans, and receives national attention. The outcome may reveal 2026 attitudes toward Trump and American politics.
Sources
Information for this report was gathered from NJ Advance Media, campaign statements, public remarks made during the Newark rally, and recent political polling data.
