Democratic U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey announced her candidacy for governor on Monday and emphasized her commitment to tackling the state’s economic challenges. Sherrill, a former federal prosecutor and Navy helicopter pilot, described her campaign as a call to action and said it’s time to make New Jersey more affordable.

In a campaign video, Sherrill highlighted her military background as a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and helicopter pilot, and emphasized her ability to lead under pressure.

“I learned early on: in a crisis, the worst thing you can do is freeze,” she said. “You must choose to lead, follow or get out of the way.” She also pointed to pressing economic issues and vowed to address the rising costs of health care, groceries and child care.

A busy democratic field is emerging

Sherrill joins a growing list of Democrats vying to succeed Governor Phil Murphy.

The field includes U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey Mayor Steven Fulop, teachers union president Sean Spiller and former Senate President Steve Sweeney.

Murphy’s departure sets the stage for a highly competitive race. Sherrill’s arrival adds another high-profile candidate: She has represented New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District since flipping the historically Republican district in 2018. She has been reelected three times, building a reputation for bipartisan cooperation and a focus on middle-class issues.

Republican candidates are preparing for battle

Republicans are also gearing up for the governor’s race, with notable candidates including Sen. Jon Bramnick, former state lawmaker Jack Ciatarelli, former Sen. Ed Durr and radio host Bill Spadea making their intentions known.

With both parties fielding strong candidates, the election promises to be closely watched as a barometer of national political trends.

Potential implications for Sherrill’s congressional seat

Sherrill’s run raises questions about the future of her congressional seat. If she resigns to focus on the governor’s race, New Jersey law requires the governor to call a special election if the vacancy occurs more than 70 days before the general election.

New Jersey’s race for governor, along with Virginia’s, will be one of the few statewide contests in 2025 to draw national attention. Sherrill’s campaign is expected to highlight her military and prosecutorial experience, as well as her record in Congress, as she makes her case to voters in a state with a diverse electorate and complex challenges.

This article contains reporting from The Associated Press