Leadership, Vision, and Progress: Introducing The Candidates Shaping New Jersey's Future
- Karen Brittingham-Edmond
- Jun 15
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 26
June 15, 2025
Politics
Mikie Sherrill, the Democratic candidate for Governor in 2025, is a trailblazer ready to bring bold, pro-female leadership to New Jersey. As an Essex County legislator, former Navy pilot, federal prosecutor, and devoted mother of four, Mikie embodies strength, resilience, and dedication. Married to Jason Hedberg, she balances her family life with an unwavering commitment to public service. Let's celebrate her well-deserved victory in the Democratic Primary for Governor in 2025!
Representing New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, Mikie Sherrill has built a career defined by breaking barriers and serving her community. After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1994, she spent nearly a decade on active duty in the Navy, flying missions across Europe and the Middle East as a Sea King helicopter pilot. She also worked on the Battle Watch Floor during the Iraq invasion and served as a Flag Aide to the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. As a Russian policy officer, she played a key role in implementing nuclear treaty obligations and fostering collaboration between the U.S. and Russian Federation Navies.
After leaving the Navy in 2003, Mikie pursued her passion for justice, earning a law degree from Georgetown University. She practiced law and later joined the U.S. Attorney's Office in New Jersey, where she developed community-focused programs to prevent crime, rebuild trust between law enforcement and residents, and support individuals transitioning out of prison with opportunities for employment, housing, and education. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, she worked tirelessly to ensure public safety by prosecuting federal cases and guiding law enforcement investigations.
Mikie's impressive academic background includes a Bachelor's degree from the United States Naval Academy, a Master's degree in Global History from the London School of Economics, and a Law degree from Georgetown University. She currently serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition and the Threat to the United States from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
Mikie Sherrill's unique combination of military expertise, legal acumen, and dedication to community empowerment positions her as a transformative leader. As a mother of four and a champion for women, she is ready to lead New Jersey into a future of progress, equity, and opportunity for all.
Ras Baraka, the former Democratic candidate for governor in 2025 and current Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, brought a unique blend of leadership, cultural connection, and progressive policies to his candidacy. A former principal and schoolteacher, Baraka is a dedicated advocate for women and children, with a deep commitment to addressing systemic disenfranchisement and racism. If elected, he would have made history as New Jersey's first Black governor.
Baraka's connection to hip-hop culture sets him apart as a leader who bridges the worlds of art and politics. He collaborated with Lauryn Hill on her iconic 1998 album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, narrating interludes that reflect his educational background." He also worked with Hill on an unreleased single and appeared on the Fugees' album The Score. His spoken word album, Shorty for Mayor, further highlights his creative expression and cultural influence.
As mayor, Baraka has been recognized as one of the most progressive Democrats in the nation. His tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including reducing violence to a 60-year low, spearheading Newark's nationally praised lead water pipe replacement program, and advocating for local control of Newark's schools. His innovative initiatives, such as the Model Neighborhoods program and efforts to address underwater mortgages, demonstrate his ability to tackle complex urban challenges. Unfortunately, the New Jersey Governor's race included another Black man and an additional man of color running for the same position, which typically has a negative impact of splitting or dividing the vote. As a result, voter turnout for candidates trying to win the election becomes divided.
This is particularly true when alternative Black candidates opposing Baraka adopt a more assimilation, color-blind approach that, in turn, dissociates with the oppression faced by Black citizens and immigrants, unlike Ras Baraka, who embraces his Black identity. And can effectively understand and relate to the challenges faced by immigrant populations who come to America legally. Baraka's leadership blends cultural resonance, a history of effective governance, and a vision for equity and progress that should have made him a compelling candidate for governor.
Jack Ciatteriali is the Republican candidate for Governor, bringing a proud Italian-American heritage and a deep love for New Jersey to his campaign. A respected lawmaker from Somerset County, Jack has served in the State Assembly and made waves as a strong contender in the 2021 governor's race against Governor Murphy. Beyond politics, Jack's story is one of hard work, family, and community. He's a former professor at Seton Hall University, where he also earned both his Accounting degree and MBA. Jack's roots run deep in New Jersey, having been born in Somerville and raised in the Borough of Raritan, where his grandparents settled after immigrating 100 years ago. His journey reflects the resilience and determination of Italian-American families everywhere.
Jack is not only a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) but also a successful entrepreneur who built two thriving Main Street businesses right here in New Jersey. Yet, of all his accomplishments, the title he cherishes most is "Dad." He and his wife, Melinda Castro, raised four children who are now thriving in their careers. Jack's commitment to family and community shines through in everything he does.
Throughout his career, Jack has always believed in giving back. He's served at every level of government, from the Raritan Borough Council to the Somerset County Freeholder Board and the State Assembly, winning tough races and voluntarily stepping aside to make room for new leadership. In 2021, Jack's run for Governor energized the Republican Party, defying expectations and coming within a few points of unseating the incumbent. His leadership helped Republicans achieve historic victories, flipping seven state legislature seats and securing hundreds of local and county wins—the best Election Day for New Jersey Republicans in 30 years.
Jack hasn't slowed down since. He continues to travel across the state, speaking out on the issues that matter most to a portion of New Jersey families who are more than likely pro-Trump supporters. Ciateriali provides practical, sensible solutions to everyday problems. With his strong foundation, entrepreneurial drive, and steadfast commitment to his Pro-Trump community, Jack Ciatteriali represents the values of Pro-Trump families in N.J. and a pride in heritage that resonates with many citizens who supported President Trump. Despite the fact that CNN's analysis indicates that "at least 121,000 federal employees have been dismissed or targeted this year, although the actual number might be higher according to CNN's research." Since Trump has entered the office as president six months ago.
Let's celebrate his journey and wish him success as he campaigns to lead New Jersey into a brighter future!
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