Governor Mikie Sherrill’s Third Week in Office

By: Michael Matthews | Published: February 10th, 2026

During her third week as Governor, Mikie Sherrill had to face crisis management, political transition, and unfolding of ripple effects from her departure from Congress. 

The Race to Fill Sherrill’s Vacant Seat 

Her move to Trenton left her seat in the House of Representatives vacant for the 11^th Congressional District, leading to a special primary election on February 5^th to fill it. A total of 11 Democrats and 1 Republican ran for the seat. Though not yet called by the Associated Press, former congressman Tom Malinowski has conceded the primary to Analilia Mejia, a progressive advocate, who had the endorsement of notable progressive leaders Bernie Sanders and Alexandia Ocasio-Cortez.  The Special General Election will be held on April 16. 

Suing the Trump Administration Over Gateway Tunnel Funds 

At a press conference with Governor Mikie Sherrill on February 4, Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that New Jersey and New York are suing the Trump Administration due to funds that have been frozen for the Gateway Tunnel Project.  

“Roughly $18 billion in New York City infrastructure projects have been put on hold to ensure funding is not flowing based on unconstitutional DEI principal.” stated Russell Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget.  

The lawsuit seeks emergency relief to stop the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) from continuing to implement its funding freeze. These funds are needed to ensure that construction on the project can keep moving, that workers do not lose their jobs, and that the states and their residents are unharmed. 

“Every time the Trump Administration gets involved, costs go up and working people suffer,” said Sherrill. “The illegal attack on the Gateway Tunnel is yet another example. New Jersey will not back down from this fight. If this projects stops, 1,000 workers will immediately lose their jobs and hundreds of thousands of commuters will lose the chance at finally having reliable train service that makes their lives easier.” 

For continued coverage of Governor Mikie Sherrill and what the future holds for the residents of New Jersey, check back with The Tower every Tuesday afternoon for Michael Matthews’ column.