Nice List 🕊️

1. Mikie Sherrill
   The congresswoman and former Navy pilot has shown an unwavering commitment to New Jersey families, veterans, and bipartisanship. Her pragmatic leadership style and focus on infrastructure and healthcare make her a top contender for higher office. Sherrill has the vision and energy that NJ needs, and many see her as the future Governor.
2. Andy Kim
   A soft-spoken yet powerful advocate for his constituents, Kim’s work on national security, veterans’ affairs, and government transparency has been exemplary. His iconic act of cleaning up the Capitol after the January 6th insurrection symbolized his quiet but effective leadership.
3. Cory Booker
   Known for his boundless optimism and passionate oratory, Senator Booker has championed causes like criminal justice reform, food insecurity, and affordable housing. His ability to inspire while addressing serious policy issues keeps him a shining star in NJ politics.
4. Phil Murphy
   Governor Murphy has prioritized progressive initiatives like raising the minimum wage, legalizing cannabis, and expanding NJ Transit funding. While he’s not without critics, his focus on climate change and public health during the pandemic helped guide NJ through tough times.
5. Tom Malinowski
   A former congressman and diplomat, Malinowski’s focus on ethics in government and holding corporate interests accountable has been a hallmark of his career. His fight for transparency and good governance resonates well with NJ voters.

Naughty List 🎅

1. George Norcross
   The unelected powerbroker has long been synonymous with NJ’s backroom political dealings. His control over South Jersey politics and influence on policies that often benefit his own interests have drawn criticism from both sides of the aisle. Norcross represents everything people dislike about entrenched machine politics.
2. Chris Christie
   Once NJ’s brash and outspoken Governor, Christie’s political legacy is tarnished by the infamous Bridgegate scandal and his failed presidential bid. While he did make strides in pension reform, his priorities often seemed more focused on national ambitions than the Garden State.
3. Nick Sacco
   The longtime North Bergen power player has faced allegations of cronyism and corruption for years. His control over municipal resources and political patronage has made him a controversial figure in NJ politics. Sacco’s leadership style embodies the excesses of entrenched political machines.
4. Joe DiVincenzo (“Joe D”)
   As Essex County Executive, “Joe D” has built a reputation for patronage and power plays. While he’s credited with stabilizing Essex County’s finances, his close ties to political machines and controversial decisions often overshadow his accomplishments.
5. Jeff Van Drew
   The congressman’s defection from the Democratic Party to pledge loyalty to Donald Trump left many of his constituents feeling betrayed. Van Drew’s political flip-flopping and embrace of far-right rhetoric have alienated moderates and progressives alike.