Newark lawmaker backs Sherrill over Baraka

Assembly Budget Committee Chair Eliana Pintor Marin (D-Newark) has endorsed Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) for the Democratic nomination to succeed term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy.

This is Sherrill’s second endorsement of the week from a Newark legislator, which comes despite the presence of the mayor of Newark, Ras Baraka, in the gubernatorial primary.  Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz endorsed Sherrill on Monday.

“Here in New Jersey, we need a decisive leader who is going to roll up her sleeves and get right to work tackling the biggest issues facing New Jersey families,” said Pintor Marin, who holds one of the most powerful posts in the legislature.  “I know that is exactly what Mikie will do as our next governor, because we are both committed mothers and committed public servants.”

Pintor Marin said her decision to back Sherrill because “she values hard work, is deeply committed to serving our state and our country, and wants to build opportunities for all of our children.”

“From the rising cost of housing, utilities, and groceries, to the challenges we face keeping our children safe on social media, Mikie has a vision and plan to get the job done in Trenton,” she stated.

Sherrill also has the endorsement of State Sen. Renee Burgess (D-Irvington), who represents part of Newark.