Reynolds-Jackson withdrew from lieutenant governor consideration

Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D-Trenton) withdrew her name from consideration for lieutenant governor on Friday, clearing the way for Gov. Mikie Sherrill to name Acting Secretary of State Shirley Emehelu as her choice for the state’s second-highest office.

The New Jersey Globe first reported that Sherrill plans to announce Emehelu’s appointment as lieutenant governor.

“I have informed Governor Sherrill today that I am withdrawing my name from consideration for Lieutenant Governor,” Reynolds-Jackson said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful to the Governor for considering me and for her confidence in my ability to serve the people of New Jersey. It is an honor to have been considered.”

Sherrill praised Reynolds-Jackson, who chairs the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus, and said she respected her decision to withdraw.

“I appreciate Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson’s willingness to step forward for consideration as Lieutenant Governor. I understand and respect her decision that now is not the right time for her,” Sherrill said. “She is a tireless champion for her district, and I’m pleased that she will continue to be a close partner.”

Sherrill offered particularly strong praise for Reynolds-Jackson’s work on issues affecting Black residents and working families.

“Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson is in a class of her own,” Sherrill said. “From education and health care to voting rights, she has long championed equity and expanded opportunities for working families, especially for the Black community throughout her career and as Chair of the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus.”

Reynolds-Jackson said she had assured Sherrill during their conversation that she remained committed to working with the administration to advance the Black Agenda and deliver meaningful progress for Black residents across New Jersey.

“Tuesday’s election results have only strengthened my resolve and deepened my commitment,” Reynolds-Jackson said. “I remain more determined than ever to use every opportunity and platform available to move our state forward, whether through my work in the Legislature or through the various roles I have the privilege of serving in.”

Sherrill said their partnership would continue despite Reynolds-Jackson’s decision.

“I know our commitment to our partnership is strong, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with her to deliver for the Black community and working families in every community across New Jersey,” the governor said.

Emehelu, a former federal prosecutor and senior official in the Attorney General’s Office, became acting secretary of state after Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell left in September. She previously served as acting state comptroller after Sherrill appointed her to that position in January.

Reynolds-Jackson, who represents the 15th legislative district in Mercer and Hunterdon counties, said she would continue focusing on policies to expand opportunity, strengthen communities and promote Black leadership.

“This work is ongoing and I look forward to continuing to serve the residents of District 15 with purpose, conviction, and an unwavering promise towards progress,” she said.

This story was updated at 6:02 PM with comment from Sherrill.