Gov. Mikie Sherrill began her term as New Jersey’s 57th governor by signing executive orders focused on controlling energy costs, promoting new energy generation, and establishing ethical standards in government. The inauguration took place at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.
Business leaders from across the state responded to Sherrill’s inaugural address, offering congratulations and sharing their perspectives on her priorities.
Michele Siekerka, president and CEO of the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA), commented: “Throughout her campaign, and even preceding it during her time in Congress, Governor Sherrill has shown a much-needed willingness to work with the business community and to give our job creators a more even playing field from which to compete.
“We have been heartened by her transition team’s engagement with NJBIA and the business community since the election in November. While we know we will not always agree on every issue, having an open dialogue with this administration and a mutual understanding of the importance of business to New Jersey’s economy is a great foundation from which to build on. It also makes for better governance.
“We stand at the ready to work with the Sherrill administration and look forward to helping in any way possible. Best of luck to all!”
Andrew Hendry, region president of Atlantic City Electric, addressed concerns about rising electric bills: “We share the governor’s concerns around the rising cost of electric bills. Our company doesn’t own generation. The vast majority of increases that customers have been facing is the result of increasing generation costs. [Utilities] are in a position where we have to pass those costs through to our customers. Our company shares that concern.
“This is a supply and demand issue. Increasing the supply of generation to meet the increase in demand is going to be key. We want to be partners with the governor on that. She recognizes that there is a supply crunch and that the utilities will be helpful to addressing this … we are looking forward to working with her.”
Jim Kirkos, CEO of Meadowlands Regional Chamber & Meadowlands Live! Convention & Visitors Bureau, said: “I was pleased by Gov. Sherrill’s focus on prosperity and affordability because New Jersey needs that. I also have a great degree of confidence in Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell. I think he is going to be a very different type of Lt. Gov who will be active in the business community. That is needed.
“I like the fact that Gov. Sherrill wants to do things a little differently. I like the idea of holding government agencies and entities accountable and eliminating roadblocks and bureaucracy to advance business projects.”
Chrissy Buteas, president and CEO of HealthCare Institute of New Jersey (HINJ), stated: “HINJ and New Jersey’s life sciences congratulate Gov. Mikie Sherrill on her inauguration, and we look forward to working with her on making New Jersey more affordable, lowering healthcare costs for patients, and strengthening our state’s innovation economy. New Jersey has been known as the ‘Medicine Chest of the World’ for well over a century, and we were gratified to hear the governor celebrate New Jersey’s global leadership in innovation during her remarks this morning. Our research-based biopharmaceutical and medical technology companies will continue working with her administration and the State Legislature to protect our innovation ecosystem that saves so many lives around the world while driving New Jersey jobs and our state’s economy.”
Debbie Hart, president and CEO of BioNJ, remarked: “BioNJ congratulates Gov. Mikie Sherrill and Lt. Gov. Dr. Dale Caldwell and their administration and celebrates this exciting new chapter for the State of New Jersey. We are confident that this administration will be fueled by integrity, passion, and grit — values that reflect the very best of our great state.
“As New Jersey continues to lead in innovation, life sciences, and economic growth, BioNJ looks forward to working collaboratively with the Sherrill administration to advance policies that strengthen our innovation ecosystem, support patients, and enhance the quality of life for all New Jerseyans. Together, we can build an even stronger and more vibrant future for the people, patients and businesses that call New Jersey home.”
Daniel Kim, president and CEO of New Jersey Restaurant & Hospitality Association highlighted upcoming events: “We are encouraged and look forward to working with Governor Sherrill, especially here in 2026 with the World Cup and nation’s 250th anniversary when we are going to have so many visitors who will be patronizing our restaurants and hotels and utilizing our hospitality groups.
“We want to make sure we are putting on a worldclass experience for visitors coming in. We want to make sure we have safety and security … that we have a workforce to handle the influx. We are certainly willing to be a partner in all these issues.”
Lori Roth, CEO of Prager Metis CPAs said: “Gov. Sherrill’s speech was unifying. It was used to bring everybody together, which is important. It was very impactful from that standpoint. I feel optimism for New Jersey.”
Denise Beckson from Morey’s Piers & Resorts commented: “Gov. Sherrill’s speech was inspiring. She brings a lot of fresh exuberance to the job. She wants to roll up her sleeves and get stuff done.” Beckson also noted how quickly executive orders were signed after taking office.
Christopher Emigholz from NJBIA said: “It’s hard not to be optimistic on a day like today… It is good to hear Gov.Mikie Sherrill talk about making government work better because we hear from our NJBIA members that… they may have a construction project ready but can’t get a permit…that government is not working for them.”
David Greek from Circulate NJ referenced Rutgers research showing warehouses support over 1 million jobs statewide while generating significant tax revenue each year; he expressed hope for continued partnership between logistics industries and state government.
David Rible from Utility & Transportation Contractors Association emphasized infrastructure needs: “UTCA looks forward to working with Governor Sherrill as her administration tackles the issues facing New Jersey…Our transportation and energy infrastructure are in serious need of upgrades…Our members…are standing by ready willing and able to do what needs to be done.”
Debra L.Wentz Ph.D., head of NJ Association Mental Health & Addiction Agencies Inc., added congratulations while outlining priorities such as expanding access behavioral health services statewide—especially for vulnerable populations—and supporting workforce development efforts within mental health care fields.
