Embrich nominated as New Jersey’s first Veteran Advocate

Michael Embrich, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime veterans advocate, has been nominated by Gov. Mikie Sherrill to become New Jersey’s first independent watchdog for veterans’ care, facilities, and services.

The legislature created the Office of the Veteran Advocate in 2025 as an independent voice for veterans and their families.  Although the office will be housed within the new standalone Department of Veterans Affairs, it will operate independently and provide independent oversight of the state’s veterans’ facilities and services.

The advocate will have the authority to inspect veterans homes and other facilities, investigate allegations of abuse or neglect, recommend improvements and monitor corrective actions. The office will also investigate broader concerns about veterans services, help veterans obtain benefits and represent their interests before state and federal agencies.

“New Jersey’s veterans deserve a strong, independent voice focused entirely on their well-being and on ensuring government delivers the care, services, and support they have earned,” Sherrill said. “Michael has spent his career fighting for veterans and military families at every level of government.”

Earlier this year, he mounted an unsuccessful bid for a seat on the Democratic National Committee Executive Board.

New Jersey Democratic State Chairman LeRoy Jones, Jr. endorsed his candidacy, along with State Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) and Hudson County Executive Craig Guy.

Embrich, a Bayonne resident, served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt.  His military honors include the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation, and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal.  He’s frequently written for Rolling Stone.

After leaving the military, Embrich held senior positions in the New Jersey General Assembly, including chief of staff, and advocated for passage of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008.   He later served as deputy chief of public affairs for the U.S. Army, an alternate to the U.S. Treasury Taxpayer Advocate for New Jersey, and state commander of the New Jersey Catholic War Veterans.

“I look forward to serving as an independent and trusted voice for veterans and their families,” Embrich said.

Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Vincent Solomeno said Embrich brings “a veteran’s perspective, decades of public-service experience, and a clear record of advocating for veterans and their families.”

State Sen. Joe Cryan (D-Union), who sponsored legislation creating the office, called the nomination “an important step in fulfilling the promise of this new agency.”

The post requires confirmation by the New Jersey State Senate.