New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill is under fire for promising a new era of transparency and accountability in elections while actively blocking the release of public records related to thousands of noncitizens found on the state’s voter rolls.
Sherrill, who took office earlier this year, publicly slammed her predecessor, former Gov. Phil Murphy, for “reckless failures” after election officials discovered approximately 6,600 noncitizens had been registered to vote in the Garden State. Roughly 400 of them reportedly cast ballots. She declared “accountability starts now” and positioned herself as a reformer committed to cleaning up the mess.
However, when The Federalist requested detailed voter records — including party affiliations of the noncitizen registrants — the New Jersey Department of State refused, citing an ongoing investigation. The state has also declined to provide the information to the Department of Justice, which issued a formal demand for names, addresses, registration details, and voting records.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon gave the state five business days to comply and instructed officials to preserve all related documents. Sherrill has pushed back, claiming the Trump administration might “weaponize” the data.
Election experts point out that basic voter registration information is subject to public disclosure under federal law. The refusal raises legitimate questions about what Sherrill’s administration is trying to hide and whether political considerations are taking priority over election integrity.
The scandal exposes deeper problems in New Jersey’s voter roll maintenance. The state does not require proof of U.S. citizenship to register, relying instead on self-attestation. Sherrill blamed a “software glitch,” but critics argue this is symptomatic of a system vulnerable to errors — and potential abuse.
This case perfectly illustrates why the SAVE America Act is so critical. Requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration would prevent these situations and restore confidence that only eligible American citizens are deciding elections.
Sherrill’s selective transparency — loud promises followed by stonewalling — undermines public trust at a time when Americans are demanding cleaner, more secure elections. New Jersey voters deserve full answers, not more excuses.
