New Jersey Representative Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat now running for governor, is choosing to stay out of the New York City mayoral race. She stated at a recent event that she’s concentrating on New Jersey and will let New Yorkers decide their own election.
Sherrill’s hesitation comes as some worry about the Democratic mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani. Some believe his far-left ideas could hurt other Democrats in upcoming elections.
At the event, Sherrill said New Jersey voters are more concerned about local issues like the high cost of living, electricity bills, housing prices, and healthcare. She also mentioned worries about funding for important projects like the Gateway Tunnel.
When asked again about the New York City race, Sherrill repeated that she’s focused on New Jersey, where she is running for governor.
Her Republican opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, has criticized Sherrill for seemingly avoiding a clear position on the New York City race. He pointed out that she had previously suggested she would likely support Mamdani if he became the Democratic nominee.
Mamdani, if elected, would be the first Muslim mayor of New York City. While some leading Democrats are supporting him, others, like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have not endorsed his campaign.
Mamdani’s campaign has focused on making life more affordable in New York City. He has proposed ideas like free bus rides, tuition-free college, rent freezes, free childcare, and government-run grocery stores.
However, he has faced criticism for his far-left views, including his comments about Israel and the New York City Police Department, as well as his plan to shift some police responsibilities to social services.
