Democrat Mikie Sherrill, a New Jersey lawmaker serving in the US House of representatives, is projected to win the governor's race in the Garden State.
In one of several races that are seen as both a referendum on US President Donald Trump and bellwether for the 2026 midterm elections, Sherill will succeed fellow Democrat Gov Phil Murphy.
The US Naval Academy graduate, helicopter pilot and former federal prosecutor first entered politics in 2018 as anti-Trump sentiment washed over the US during his first term.
The congresswoman edged out Republican Jack Ciattarelli, a former state legislator. Her victory comes after fellow liberal Abigail Spanberger won the governor's race in Virginia.
The race to lead the state was neck and neck between Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by President Donald Trump, and Sherill in the weeks leading up to the 4 November general election in a reliably blue state that is also considered a bellwether for next year's midterm elections, where Democrats hope to tilt control of Congress in their favour.
