Democrat congressman Mikie Sherrill is projected to win the New Jersey governor’s race after defeating President Donald Trump-backed Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli.

The election was one of several races deemed a test of Mr Trump and his Republican Party’s divided popularity following the presidential election victory last year, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. 

Despite Mr Trump’s endorsement of Mr Ciattarelli in the race, Ms Sherrill edged him out and will become the next governor of New Jersey, replacing fellow Democrat Phil Murphy.

The former federal prosecutor will become the first female Democratic governor of New Jersey by the time she is sworn into office in January 2026.

Speaking to supporters at her victory rally on Tuesday, Ms Sherrill said her win would bring a new age to New Jersey, noting that “these are tough times”. 

Ms Sherrill said, “I know not everyone voted for me, but I’m working for everyone.”

She added, “We’re going to follow Lady Liberty’s beacon. We’re not going to give in to our darker impulses. Here in New Jersey, we know that this nation has not ever been, nor will it ever be, ruled by kings. We take oaths to a constitution, not a king.”