Mikie Sherrill, a Democratic Congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot, announced her bid for New Jersey governor on Monday, joining an already crowded primary field to succeed term-limited Gov. Phil Murphy.

In a campaign video, Sherrill emphasized her military background and a commitment to affordability for residents. “Let’s make life more affordable for hardworking New Jerseyans, from health care to groceries to childcare,” she said. “It’s time to confront these challenges head-on.”

Sherrill, 52, has represented New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District since 2018, flipping the seat from Republican control. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former federal prosecutor, Sherrill has positioned herself as a centrist Democrat focused on infrastructure and economic issues, including securing funding for the Gateway Project linking New Jersey and New York.

The Democratic field also includes Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, former state Senate President Steve Sweeney, and New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller. Republican contenders include state Sen. Jon Bramnick, former state legislator Jack Ciattarelli, former state Sen. Ed Durr, and radio host Bill Spadea.

The race follows Vice President Kamala Harris’s narrow 2024 win in New Jersey, signaling increased competitiveness in a traditionally Democratic state. Murphy won reelection in 2021 by just three points.

In her campaign launch, Sherrill stressed the importance of protecting freedoms and addressing economic concerns. “New Jersey can be the state that sets the gold standard for protecting rights and freedoms,” she said, referencing national challenges under a potential second Trump presidency.

If elected, Sherrill would become the state’s second female governor. The primary election is scheduled for June 2025.