Rep. Donald Payne (D-Newark) has endorsed Mikie Sherrill for the Democratic nomination for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th district.
Sherill has the backing of the Essex County Democratic Committee, while her top primary competitor, Tamara Harris, has been endorsed by the Congressional Black Caucus. The support of Payne and other Black elected officials, like Assemblywoman Mila Jasey (D-South Orange) could help Sherrill add to her base in advance of Tuesday’s Democratic primary.
“We have a lot at stake in 2018,” said Payne. “From healthcare to infrastructure, we need another strong and bold voice for New Jersey in Washington. As a former Navy helicopter pilot and federal prosecutor, Mikie has been such a voice. She has stood up for our country and our values, and now we need her with us in Washington to stand up once again. I am proud to support her bid for Congress and look forward to having her join the New Jersey delegation in the House of Representatives.”
Sherrill is seeking the open seat of Republican Rodney Frelinghuysen, who is retiring after 24 years in Congress.