The New Jersey governor's race comes amid a government shutdown, a decline in approval for President Donald Trump and national concerns about affordability.

Race between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli is drawing attention as preview of 2026 midterms

The New Jersey governor's race comes amid a government shutdown, a decline in approval for President Donald Trump and national concerns about affordability.

The race has gotten tighter in recent weeks.

In a race that was seen as being as much about national politics as state ones, her victory is a good sign for Democrats.

It marks the second big win for Democrats in an election seen as a referendum on US President Donald Trump.

Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot and four-term member of Congress, defeated Jack Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by President Donald Trump.