NEWARK — Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill and Lieutenant Governor-elect Dale Caldwell announced that their inauguration ceremony will take place at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark. During the ceremony, the incoming administration will outline its priorities and vision for New Jersey.
“For more than a year, I’ve been up and down this state and am on a mission to deliver for all New Jerseyans — lower costs, a better future for our kids, and a more transparent and accountable state government,” Governor-elect Sherrill said. “Leadership means listening to the people about what keeps them up at night, and we will start my administration the same way we won this race — by listening and taking action for the people I serve. I couldn’t be more honored to be sworn in as your next governor and begin my administration in the Gateway City.”
Lt. Governor-elect Caldwell, who also serves as transition chair, said returning to Newark for the ceremony is especially meaningful. “As the founding executive director of the Newark Alliance, I’m always excited to come back,” he said. “I’m also forever grateful to the faith community in Newark that helped elect the first pastor to the office of lieutenant governor. Between my background as a pastor, educator, and small business owner, and Mikie’s history of service, we will bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton — focused on lowering costs, supporting small businesses, and standing up for the rights of all New Jerseyans.”
The announcement underscores Newark’s significance to the incoming administration. Governor-elect Sherrill’s first stop outside of Trenton after the election was in Newark, where she visited a local food bank to highlight her opposition to proposed federal cuts to food assistance programs. In November, Sherrill also drove the highest gubernatorial election turnout in Newark since 2005.
Local leaders praised the decision to host the inauguration in Essex County. Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. called the selection an honor, noting that Sherrill is only the second woman elected governor in New Jersey’s history. He said NJPAC’s world-class facilities make it an ideal venue to showcase Newark and Essex County.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka echoed those sentiments, calling it a high honor for the city. “As New Jersey’s largest city, Newark is an appropriate setting for such a momentous occasion,” Baraka said. “NJPAC, the crowning jewel of our downtown district, will shine bright on January 20 and showcase Newark’s radiance for all to see.”
The inauguration at NJPAC is expected to draw statewide attention, marking the formal start of the Sherrill-Caldwell administration and signaling a new chapter in New Jersey leadership.
