Mayor Andre Sayegh, the mayor of New Jersey’s third-largest city, pledged to support Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) for the Democratic nomination for governor in 2025 if she runs.
“As mayor, I have always put first the residents of Paterson — working to improve quality of life, provide greater economic opportunity, and make our city more resilient for the future,” he said. “We need that same tireless focus in our next governor, which is why I will strongly support Mikie Sherrill should she enter the race.”
Sayegh’s support follows an indication that Passaic County Democratic Chairman John Currie was preparing to back Sherrill.
“As a U.S. Navy veteran who was again called to serve her country after Donald Trump was elected president, Mikie is a proven fighter, a real leader with real integrity, and a Congresswoman who has delivered for the people of North Jersey,” he said. “I know she cares deeply about cities like Paterson and will be a strong partner in the governor’s office.”
Sayegh, a two-term mayor who will become the state’s highest-ranking Arab American in December, is a significant get for Sherrill, who is campaigning for a fourth term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Sherrill is widely expected to join the governor’s race later this year.
“As we approach the most consequential election of our lifetime, it’s important to ensure our state is in good hands regardless of the outcome — that’s why I am prepared to help with a robust turnout effort for Mikie and look forward to her getting in the race,” Sayegh said.
Sayegh’s support for Sherrill follows indications that Middlesex County Democratic Chairman Kevin McCabe and Essex County Democratic Chairman LeRoy Jones will also support her gubernatorial campaign. So is the Laborers’ International Union of North America.