The National Association of Government Employees (NAGE), a union representing public and private sector workers nationwide, has officially endorsed Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) in the 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial race.
In a unanimous vote by its national executive board, the organization, affiliated with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), highlighted Sherrill’s strong track record on labor issues, workplace safety, and economic fairness.
“NAGE is proud to endorse Mikie Sherrill for governor of New Jersey,” said David J. Holway, NAGE’s president. “Her commitment to safe workplaces, fair wages, and the rights of working families reflects the values we fight for every day. Sherrill’s leadership will not only benefit New Jersey but will also serve as a model for labor-friendly policies across the country.”
The endorsement was spearheaded by Eddie Donnelly, president of the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJFMBA) and a NAGE executive board member. Donnelly praised Sherrill’s dedication to public safety workers and their families.
“In the last year of a labor-friendly governor’s administration, we must ensure that the next leader shares our values,” Donnelly said. “Mikie Sherrill has consistently shown unwavering support for public safety workers and all working families in New Jersey. She is the right choice to continue the progress we’ve made.”
NAGE represents thousands of government employees in 43 states, including first responders, healthcare workers, and municipal employees. The endorsement is expected to provide Sherrill with additional momentum in the Democratic primary, as well as access to a network of union donors in New Jersey’s publicly funded campaign system, which offers a $2 match for every $1 raised.
Sherrill, a former federal prosecutor, Navy veteran, and sitting congresswoman, has already gained significant support from unions, including the NJFMBA, which was the first public safety union to endorse her bid for governor.
“Public employees are the backbone of our communities, and I’m deeply honored to have NAGE’s support,” Sherrill said in a statement. “As governor, I will fight to ensure that every worker has the opportunities, protections, and respect they deserve.”
With Gov. Phil Murphy term-limited, the 2025 race is shaping up to be a key contest in a state with a strong labor presence. Sherrill’s endorsement by NAGE further cements her as a leading candidate in the Democratic field.
