Mikie Sherrill for Congress

My Verona NJ: Letter: The Many Reasons To Re-Elect Mikie Sherrill

I have had the unusual honor to meet our Congresswoman from CD11, Mikie Sherrill, when she was at the very start of her run for Congress in 2017. It’s been difficult recently to watch lies and misinformation be spread about her. Representative Sherrill is one of the most hard-working representatives anywhere. Sherrill’s predecessor held his seat without much opposition for two dozen years, barely engaging constituents. Our current representative stands in sharp contrast as a public servant. The Congresswoman has held 22 town halls in 22 months! Access to her and her staff is easy, and they work diligently to serve the district. Upon arriving in DC, Mikie became chairwoman of the Subcommittee on the Environment (on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee) and vice chair and co-founder, of Servicewomen and Women Veterans Caucus. Sherrill has shown the ability to work in a bipartisan fashion. Part of her training in the Navy, as she likes to say, never included “partisan missions”. They were just missions and that is how she performs in DC. Read More >>

Posted on October 15, 2020 by Laura Fortgang, My Verona NJ

TAPinto Sparta: Mikie Sherrill Puts Country first

Rep. Mikie Sherrill patriotism was recently impugned in a mailer put out by her opponent Rosemary Becchi. The content of the Ad showed a burning American Flag and lumped Rep. Sherrill in with radical elements that desire to defund the Police because she desires an end to qualified immunity for police officers who violate the civil rights of citizens. This is typical right wing sophistry. Mikie Sherrill has served her country with distinction whether braving the skies of the Persian Gulf in her Sea King H-3 chopper, or prosecuting criminals as a US attorney. She is a true patriot, wanting her country to do what is just and righteous in all matters, including police policy. As a former military aviator myself, I know that life and death decisions are made everyday by our soldiers,sailors and airmen that must adhere to principles of ethics like the Geneva Convention and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. There is no "qualified immunity" to protect bad actors. We operate under a code of morals that separates the US Military from the banana republics and bullies of the world. The police should be treated no differently. Wanting the police to be the best they can be, honoring their finest and making it easier to get rid of those that don't measure up is in the tradition of our military and makes Mikie Sherrill a patriot in my book. Ms. Becchi should apologize for her slanderous ad. Read More >>

Posted on October 13, 2020 by Mike Vrabel, TAPinto Sparta

TAPinto Chatham: Mikie Sherrill Works Across the Aisle, Brings Healthcare, Infrastructure, Jobs to NJ-11

In 2018 we sent Mikie Sherrill to Washington with a mission: to work across the aisle to get the job done for New Jersey’s 11th district. With pragmatic good cheer, she has improved our healthcare, gotten a good start on a crucial infrastructure project that our previous representative had regarded as Mission Impossible, boosted our local industries, and pivoted to focus on crucial needs during the pandemic. Our district is finally being heard in Washington. I hope you will join me in voting to send her back to Washington to continue to serve us faithfully and well. Read More >>

Posted on October 13, 2020 by Lara Freidenfelds, TAPinto Chatham

CNN: Democrats slam Esper’s curt answers on the military’s involvement in the election

"Rep. Slotkin and I put questions to the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in July to ensure that our military leaders understand the role and responsibilities of our military in an election," Sherrill said in a statement. "We have not received a direct commitment from Secretary Esper that he will refuse commands from an illegitimate President. Given the fact that the President has used our military for partisan purposes in the past and that the President has suggested he will not concede if he loses, it is incumbent upon the Secretary of Defense to fulfill his constitutional duties and ensure the apolitical role of the military," she added. Read More >>

Posted on October 13, 2020 by Ryan Browne, CNN

NJ Globe: Sparta GOP councilwoman endorses Sherrill re-election

A Republican councilwoman from Sparta has endorsed Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) for re-election in New Jersey’s 11th district. “I’ve worked with Congresswoman Sherrill and I’ve seen her dedication to improving the lives of her constituents, regardless of their party affiliation,” said Molly Whilesmith, a former Sparta mayor. “She has shown up time and again, whether in the aftermath of storms that hit Sussex or to hear from our residents and students in Sparta. No matter what, Congresswoman Sherrill rises above partisanship to serve the 11th and I’m proud to support her." Read More >>

Posted on October 13, 2020 by David Wildstein, New Jersey globe

Montclair State University: Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill Visits University Flu Clinic

Montclair State University President Susan A. Cole and mascot Rocky welcomed Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) for a visit to the University’s on-campus flu shot clinic on October 8. Providing hands-on experience for Montclair State University nursing students who administered the vaccines, the clinics are free for students, employees and the community at large with no insurance required. Vaccines are being supplied by Zufall Health Center for adults 19 and older, while Montclair State University is providing vaccines for people 18 and younger. There are two remaining dates for community members to receive free flu shots: Wednesday, October 14 and Thursday, October 15. Both events will be held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in Lot 17 on the Montclair State University campus. Read More >>

Posted on October 08, 2020 by Montclair State University

Wired: Trump Tests Positive, Schools Navigate Reopening, and More Coronavirus News

As many Americans continue to get test results back too late to be useful, a new House bill introduced by Mikie Sherrill (D-New Jersery) would increase federal reimbursements to labs depending on how quickly they turn around Covid-19 test results. The aptly named SPEEDY Act will offer graduated reimbursements for results coming back in 24, 48, or 72 hours, and won’t pay at all for those that take more time. Bill Gates had suggested a similar plan in an interview with WIRED this summer. While it is well established that an effective testing apparatus is a prerequisite for getting this pandemic under control, ultimately the only thing that will stop the virus’s spread is how people behave. Read More >>

Posted on October 02, 2020 by Eve Sneider, Wired

New Jersey Hills: LETTER: Sherrill is the leader we need

Mikie Sherrill is devoted to New Jersey and the American people. The House just recently passed a bill she wrote protecting the integrity and security of our elections and to ensure that the voices of New Jersey voters, as well as voters all over the country, are heard and reflected at the ballot box. Mikie started a bipartisan task force to bring together Republicans and Democrats in the Northeast, so that we will be prepared to get back to work safely and ensure that the federal government provides adequate resources to help us as well as other states. Mikie has demonstrated over and over, her willingness to work with everyone to improve New Jersey. Mikie puts people first. She is focused and motivated. Mikie is exactly the kind of leader we need in Congress for New Jersey. Vote for Mikie this November. Read More >>

Posted on October 02, 2020 by Ruth Zowader, New Jersey Hills

Wired: This Congresswoman Wants to Rev Up Covid Testing

Mikie Sherrill, a freshman congressperson from New Jersey, plans to introduce the SPEEDY Act, which would tie federal reimbursement to test result speeds. (The full name is the “Strictly Pay for Efficient and Expedited Delivery of Your (SPEEDY) Covid-19 Test Act.”) At the outset of the pandemic, the government was paying about $51 per test for people covered by federal health plans. (The average marginal cost of a standard PCR test varies, but at a high-volume lab it runs at about $40.) To encourage labs to increase capacity, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) raised that to $100 in April. Under the SPEEDY Act, tests that deliver results in 24 hours would be rewarded with $125; within 48 hours, the current $100 rate would apply; and for results within 72 hours, labs would go back to the pre-April reimbursement. The government wouldn’t pay at all for results that come back after 72 hours. (To avoid having labs just give up on tests after that window closes, the law would require them to still process the tests in order to participate in Medicare.) “A turnaround time of over 72 hours is pretty much useless,” said Sherrill, whose staff consulted with public health experts on the bill. Someone waiting for a negative result might be unable to return to work, missing out on a paycheck. Meanwhile, they and their contacts could be spreading the disease. Read More >>

Posted on October 01, 2020 by Gilad Edelman, Wired

TAPinto Nutley: Letter to the Editor: In Support of Congresswoman Sherrill

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congresswoman Sherrill put the health and safety of her constituents, and all New Jerseyians first by staying in close contact with us through town halls and listening to the needs of our people and healthcare facilities. She also showed true leadership by starting a bipartisan taskforce in the Northeast to ensure all voices were heard on how to best allocate Federal funding for our needs and those of small businesses. Her focused approach to securing funding for our hospitals and those small businesses has shown me a bright future in New Jersey where we can trust our leaders to protect us today and push us forward to a better tomorrow. That is why I will once again cast my vote for Mikie Sherrill and urge others in my district to do the same on the basis of her merit and record. Read More >>

Posted on September 30, 2020 by Zachary Smolen

Insider NJ: Menendez, Booker, Sherrill Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Protect Privacy, Safety of Federal Judges & their Families

“We were horrified when we heard the news of the murder of Judge Salas’ son Daniel, and the shooting of her husband, Mark. Choosing to work in service to our country should not put anyone’s family in danger. No family should ever have to experience that,” said Rep. Sherrill. “And we hope that the action we are taking today will prevent this from happening again. Providing the United States Marshals Service, the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, and state and local governments with these tools will help law enforcement do its job and keep our federal judges safe.” Read More >>

Posted on September 28, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill

TAPinto Chatham: Chatham Borough Democratic Committee Endorses Mikie Sherrill

The Chatham Borough Democratic Committee is pleased to announce its endorsement of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (D - 11th Congressional District) in her reelection bid for Congress. Chatham Borough Council Member, Len Resto, praised Congresswoman Sherrill’s ability to work with both sides of the aisle. Said Resto, “Congresswoman Sherrill campaigned on being a moderate and representing all constituents in her district. She has been true to her word. Ms. Sherrill is able to reach across the aisle and get things done in bipartisan fashion, the way it should be.” Mr. Resto is a former Republican who switched his party affiliation to Democrat in 2019. Commitee Chair, Pat Soteropoulos, observed, “Mikie Sherrill provides excellent constituent service. She is a frequent presence at community events and holds regular town halls to interact directly with her constituents. She is also laser-focused on the issues that matter to New Jerseyans the most.” Read More >>

Posted on September 28, 2020 by Chatham Borough Democratic Committee, TAPinto Chatham

CNBC: About 160 congress members are working parents. We asked them about school this fall—11 responded

CNBC Make It researched the biographies and public statements of the over 500 current members of Congress to learn how many have children under the age of 18. Through this (arguably inexact) research, we found that about 160 members, or roughly 30%, have children ranging in age from infants to teens. But when we attempted to reach out to ask congressional parents how they were managing school or child care this fall, just 11 provided answers through their staff. Of those, Reps. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), Katie Porter (D-Calif.), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.), Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Jennifer Wexton (D-Va.) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) all reported their children are currently attending school remotely. Read More >>

Posted on September 24, 2020 by Megan Leonhardt, CNBC

Insider NJ: Garden State Equality’s 2020 (Federal) Endorsements

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of Garden State Equality,” Congresswoman Sherrill told InsiderNJ. “GSE is a force for positive change in this state. They helped usher in powerful anti-discrimination laws, a ban on conversion therapy, and legalized gay marriage. When I was elected in 2018, I vowed to bring these Jersey values to Congress. That’s why I voted for the Equality Act, and why I’m supporting Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman’s legislation to create grants to fund PrEP assistance programs. I’m also fighting to correct the records of LGBTQ+ veterans who served our country honorably but were discharged based on their sexual orientation. I will continue to advance equality legislation and fight hard to ensure they are signed into law.” Read More >>

Posted on September 21, 2020 by Jay Lassiter, InsiderNJ

Press Release: New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association Endorses Mikie Sherrill for Congress

“I am proud to have the support of the NJ FMBA. Throughout the pandemic, our first responders have shown unparalleled bravery during our toughest moments. That is why I’ve supported Assistance to Firefighter Grants, passed legislation in the House to establish a hazard pay fund for first responders, and introduced the bipartisan SMART Act for direct state and local aid to ensure local firehouses have the resources they need to get through this crisis. I will continue to stand up for our first responders as we move forward with a new relief package,” said Congresswoman Sherrill. Read More >>

Posted on September 21, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill for Congress

My Verona NJ: Sherrill Hails Legacy Of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ11) released the following statement celebrating the life and legacy of Supreme Court Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: “Tonight we mourn the loss of an American icon. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a pioneer and a role model for women across America. She is the reason women like me not only believed we had a right to be in the workplace, but were guaranteed it. She won us equality, and then showed us how to succeed. Generations of women — my mother, myself, my sisters, my daughters — are indebted to her tenacity. Decision by decision, Justice Ginsburg reaffirmed the ideals of our Constitution and our shared values of fairness, equality, and opportunity. Her judicial opinions on voting rights, gender discrimination, and same-sex marriage made this country stronger and will continue to ring out through the ages. Justice Ginsburg is a shining example of how one person can impact our world and truly make a difference. May her memory be a blessing.” Read More >>

Posted on September 18, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill

Press Release: Congresswoman Sherrill Endorsed by the National Association of Social Workers-Political Action for Candidate Election

“Social workers are essential to the well-being of so many children, adults, and families in New Jersey and I know we are all grateful for the work they’ve done on the front lines of the pandemic. Social workers have such a positive impact on the lives of our residents, from students to seniors. I’ve worked in Congress to make sure federal dollars come back to New Jersey to support social services, and I’ll keep up that fight to ensure caregivers have the resources they need to help the community. I’m honored to have NASW-PACE’s endorsement and support,” said Rep. Sherrill. Read More >>

Posted on September 18, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill for Congress

The Hill: House passes legislation to boost election security research

The House on Wednesday unanimously passed bipartisan legislation intended to boost research into the security of election infrastructure. The Election Technology Research Act would establish and fund a Center of Excellence in Election Systems at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to test the security and accessibility of voting equipment, along with authorizing NIST and the National Science Foundation to carry out research on further securing voting technology. The bill is primarily sponsored by Reps. Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) and Anthony Gonzalez (R-Ohio) along with House Science, Space and Technology Committee Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), ranking member Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), and almost a dozen other bipartisan sponsors. Read More >>

Posted on September 16, 2020 by Maggie Miller, The Hill

NJ Globe: House advances Sherrill election security bill

The House advanced an election security bill sponsored by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) Wednesday. The bill allows the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and National Science Foundation (NSF) to begin researching how to modernize and harden the country’s voting infrastructure. “The security and sanctity of our elections is at the very core of our democracy,” Sherrill said. “This bill, which was developed and written with strong input from experts and members on both sides of the aisle, will allow NIST and the NSF to conduct key research into the threats our election technologies face, and how best to modernize them. I’m proud to see the House of Representatives come together to support this core American value.” Read More >>

Posted on September 16, 2020 by Nikita Biryukov, New Jersey Globe

TapInto Sparta: Supports 11th Congressional District Candidate Mikie Sherrill

I support Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill for Congress and urge all voters in the 11th Congressional District to do the same. Congresswoman Sherrill has worked tirelessly to bring Republicans and Democrats together in an effort to pass legislation to provide desperately needed assistance during the Covid 19 shutdown. And, she continues working to assure that assistance continues for people whose jobs have not returned. Last week, she requested that the Treasury Secretary and IRS Commissioner continue issuing Economic Impact Payments based on current information until all 2019 returns are processed. She worked to repeal the state and local SALT tax cap that discriminates against New Jersey residents. She passed the landmark legislation to give Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies to lower drug prices for all Americans. That bill included a provision for savings from drug costs to be invested in research for cancer, rare diseases and antibiotic resistance. Read More >>

Posted on September 15, 2020 by Lorraine Parker, TapInto Sparta

Press Release: Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill Endorsed by Clean Water Action

West Caldwell, NJ -- Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill announced today that Clean Water Action (CWA) endorsed her re-election bid to serve the 11th Congressional District of New Jersey. Since its inception, the CWA has fought for strong health and environmental protections and supported legislators that share their commitment to clean water and healthy communities. “I am proud to receive Clean Water Action’s endorsement again in 2020. Over the past 19 months, I have held 19 town halls, and our residents have made it very clear that we must unite in protecting our environment. During my first term, I held a congressional hearing right here in our community on lead in the drinking water, and have stood up for clean water, clean air, and growing our clean energy economy. I stand with Clean Water Action in working for a better, brighter future for all New Jerseyans,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill. Read More >>

Posted on September 15, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill for Congress

Insider NJ: “Veterans for Mikie” Launches with Community Roundtable

“I joined fellow veterans yesterday to discuss the pressing issues facing the veteran community. That includes better healthcare, better access to educational and employment opportunities, and improving VA services,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “In my first term, I have championed legislation to pair veterans with service dogs, increase funding for burn pits research, and increase access to child care for veterans with appointments at the VA. I know first hand the sacrifices and responsibilities service members take on to protect and defend our Constitution, and I won’t stop working to improve services for our veteran community.” Read More >>

Posted on September 14, 2020 by Insider NJ

NJ Globe: Statements on the 19th Anniversary of September 11, 2001

Rep. Mikie Sherrill: “It is hard to believe that it has been 19 years since the September 11th terrorist attacks. We mourn and remember the lives of those we lost that day and honor the first responders who heroically sacrificed their lives to save others. Of the nearly 3,000 people that died on September 11th, 749 were New Jerseyans. Families and friends in our community lost beloved wives, husbands, mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. And for the families of first responders and residents of lower Manhattan that worked on or near the pile, the toxic soup of dust and chemicals caused lasting health problems. Last summer, after years of obstruction, we were finally able to pass a permanent reauthorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, to ensure survivors and families continue to receive the support they need and deserve. America was forever changed that morning in September and we will never forget those who died, or the heroes who ran toward danger. The pandemic has again tested our communities. We have lost too many friends and neighbors, and our first responders have again answered the call to serve others first. We have seen acts of heroism and kindness, both large and small. As we did after September 11th, we must remember that more unites us than divides us, and that we must take care of each other. Today, we stand together in grief, united but not broken.” Read More >>

Posted on September 11, 2020 by David Wildstein, New Jersey globe

Patch: Saving The Arts In NJ-11: Devastating Losses Seen In COVID Crisis

"Supporting the arts in NJ-11 during the pandemic is vital to both our arts community and our local economies," Sherrill said. "A performance at one of these venues typically packs local restaurants and stores, and generates jobs for local vendors." The congresswoman pointed to legislation such as the Save Our Stages Act (H.R. 7806), the Prioritized Paycheck Protection Program (P4) Act (H.R. 7241), and the RESTART Act (H.R. 7481) as examples of how the government can help save the arts amid the pandemic. There have also been inspiring attempts to adapt amid COVID-19, Sherrill pointed out. "I'm grateful for the efforts local arts organizations have made to bring performances to us virtually and outdoors," Sherrill said. "It has provided so many people an opportunity to see a great play or musical performance during the pandemic." Read More >>

Posted on September 10, 2020 by Eric Kiefer, Patch

Patch: Bipartisan Effort Leads To Conservation Victory For New Jersey

"I am excited to join New Jersey Conservation and the local community to celebrate the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act at the Great Swamp today. It is a reminder of why we worked so hard to pass this landmark legislation, which includes full and permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund," said Sherrill. "I frequently highlighted the Great Swamp as I worked to build support from Members of Congress to sign on to the Great American Outdoors Act. This bipartisan legislation is a historic investment in our open spaces, will help us jumpstart our economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, and will protect New Jersey's natural resources and public lands for generations to come. I thank New Jersey Conservation and all the organizations who worked alongside us to champion this legislation." Read More >>

Posted on September 04, 2020 by Russ Crespolini, Patch

Patch: Chris Smith Works With Dem Congresswoman To Save NJ Open Spaces

Rep. Chris Smith, this area's longtime Republican congressman, lent his continued support to Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, a freshman Democrat from Morris and Essex counties, to help provide permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a federal program that funds the acquisition and development of thousands of acres of open space and recreation areas, not just in New Jersey but across the United States. For example, some of New Jersey's most beloved spots have been funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund, among other sources. This includes the Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area, Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Morristown National Historic Park, Edwin Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge. Read More >>

Posted on September 03, 2020 by Carly Baldwin, Patch

TAPinto Bloomfield: Rep. Sherrill Helps Secure FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grants

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill was on hand this morning at Bloomfield Fire Station Number 3 on East Passaic Avenue to announce that fire departments in Bloomfield, Nutley, Belleville, Orange, East Orange and West Orange received FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grants. Sherrill, the Representative from New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, was instrumental in helping secure the AFG Grants to these local fire departments. “It’s always an honor to fight for firefighters,” said Rep. Sherrill. “You have been on the front lines of the pandemic, responding to emergencies, and risking your health and the health of your families.” Sherrill continued, “coming from a military background, I know how important it is to be prepared for an emergency – you can’t just hop in a truck and figure it out on the fly. To get the job done safely and effectively, a lot of support and logistical training is needed ahead of time.” Read More >>

Posted on September 01, 2020 by Kevin Knight, TAPinto Bloomfield

The Hill: Lawmakers call for bipartisan push to support scientific research

Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) said widespread adoption of mask wearing and social distancing guidelines were crucial to her state overcoming one of the first major U.S.coronavirus outbreaks, voicing hope that science could help Americans overcome political divides. “Now that we're looking at this global pandemic and how necessary it is to fund some of the basic structures of our government so we can get money out to small businesses and so we can attack this pandemic, we need to make sure government works. We need government to be efficient and we need government to serve the people,” Sherrill said. Read More >>

Posted on August 31, 2020 by Sylvan Lane, The Hill

Washington Post: Amid fears that Trump might not leave office, two lawmakers press for Pentagon assurances on the election

In a sign of the growing concern that President Trump might not leave office voluntarily or might attempt to use the military to hold onto power, two moderate Democratic lawmakers posed a series of written questions to the secretary of defense and the military’s top general about their obligations to the Constitution and the country. Reps. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) and Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) addressed their questions in writing to Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper, setting a deadline of Thursday evening. Read More >>

Posted on August 28, 2020 by Greg Jaffe and Missy Ryan, Washington Post

NJ.com: A pandemic reminded us of the need to protect our delightful, alluring outdoor spaces

That’s why the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act by the U.S. Senate in June by a strong bipartisan vote of 73 to 25, and then an overwhelming vote in the House of 310 to 107 on July 22, is so critical. In hyper-partisan times, where there is divergent public opinion on basic public health measures like wearing a mask, there is still broad bipartisan agreement we should fund our public lands. The entire New Jersey congressional delegation, including Sen. Cory Booker and Sen. Bob Menendez, supported this measure, and it was championed by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-11) who united with congressional members around the country from both parties to build up support. Read More >>

Posted on August 28, 2020 by Doug O'Malley, NJ.com

Hudson Reporter: Federal funds for Portal Bridge

On Aug. 26, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced a $248 million allocation from the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program for the Portal Bridge replacement project. The 110-year-old Portal Bridge spans the Hackensack River from Kearny to Secaucus, carrying a daily average of 450 trains and 200,000 passengers. The decrepit, swing-style bridge is notorious for breaking down and getting stuck in the open position for marine traffic, stranding commuters and bringing Amtrak and NJ Transit service to a halt. Under the Gateway Program, the Portal Bridge would be replaced by the Portal North Bridge, estimated at $1.8 billion. The new bridge would be higher than the current one and fixed in place, eliminating malfunctions. The project includes construction of a new rail tunnel under the Hudson River into Manhattan, among other improvements. U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), the ranking member of the Senate’s transit subcommittee; Cory Booker (D-N.J.); and U.S. Representatives Albio Sires (N.J.-08); Bill Pascrell, Jr. (N.J.-09); Donald Payne, Jr. (N.J.-10); Tom Malinowski (N.J.-07); and Mikie Sherrill (N.J.-11) applauded the funding. Read More >>

Posted on August 27, 2020 by Daniel Israel, Hudson Reporter

Madison Patch: Bipartisan Effort Brings Coronavirus Relief To Morris County

"I know from so many conversations over the last five months that leaders in Morris and Sussex have worked hard to take care of our residents and address the public health threat of COVID-19," said Sherrill. "The fight against coronavirus requires partnership across all levels of government. Governor Murphy, Senators Codey, Bucco, and Oroho, alongside our Morris and Sussex County Freeholders and Administrators John Bonnani and Greg Poff, have been instrumental in working to get support to our counties to address coronavirus. Today's announcement reflects a true collaborative effort. The funding, which uses federal Coronavirus Relief Fund dollars established by the CARES Act, will reimburse the counties for past efforts and will continue to be invested in future public health measures. More needs to be done, and I remain focused on advocating in Congress for further direct support for our state, our counties, and our municipalities." Read More >>

Posted on August 24, 2020 by Russ Crespolini, Patch

Tap Into Wayne: Support for Sherrill

Congresswoman Sherrill has dedicated her entire adult life to serving her nation: naval officer, federal prosecutor and member of Congress. I was especially impressed at how she hit the ground running in Washington and was so effective in supporting sensible positions, making good decisions and being there for her local constituents. Mikie was under constant pressure to take more progressive stances, despite her usually centrist personal political philosophy. Yet she was true to herself and stuck to her guns. As a former politician myself, I know how hard it can be to hold fast. She had promised to work across the aisle to get things done, and she delivered. I love how Mikie can be so personable and relatable yet tough and determined as the situation demands. All of these qualities make her an ideal Congress member. Read More >>

Posted on August 23, 2020 by Bob Nulman, Tap Into Wayne

North Jersey: Mikie Sherrill: We must save the USPS to preserve democracy | Opinion

As a helicopter pilot flying out of Manama, Bahrain, I would often deliver mail and packages to our fleet stationed in the Arabian Gulf. Our sailors remained connected to home and their families through those deliveries and I’ve never forgotten how critical those drops were to morale -— we often had anxious calls from Commanding Officers about our delivery schedule and heartfelt thanks when we landed on their decks. Communities across this country rely on our postal system in much the same way. Sadly, for some of our citizens, the postman or woman is the only person they see each day. There are also areas of our country that would be completely disconnected without our nation’s post office. It’s why it is in the Constitution; our founding fathers understood the postal service was a vital component of our democratic experiment. And that importance has only grown during the pandemic. It is not surprising that 91 percent of Americans approve of the United States Postal Service (USPS), outranking every other federal agency. Read More >>

Posted on August 18, 2020 by Mikie Sherrill

TAPintoPassaic: Peckman River Basin Flood Risk Management Project Clears Key Hurdle After 20 Years

It was 21 years ago next month that Hurricane Floyd struck the East Coast, killing seven people in New Jersey, including one man from Little Falls. That tragedy and the huge loss of property started a journey to solve the dangerous flash flooding problem from the Peckman River. It happened again in 2011 during Hurricane Irene and during the freak August 2018 storm, which swept vehicles into the river channel. Each time, local officials doubled down on their resolve to solve the problem. After all that - and thanks in large part to our Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and former Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr., the project has been designed and has now been approved by Congress and will begin to be funded. Read More >>

Posted on August 13, 2020 by TAPintoPassaic

North Jersey: Little Falls $146 million flood tunnel proposal passes in House; Senate to vote in fall

Two years ago this week, the Peckman River jumped its banks. It swept away cars from a Route 46 dealership and flooded out whole neighborhoods and local businesses. It was not an isolated event: The river has long caused catastrophic flooding in Little Falls and Woodland Park. With that in mind, this week, Rep. Mikie Sherrill announced she had moved the long-sought $146 million Peckman River flood mitigation plan closer to the finish line. The plan includes a tunnel meant to move water more quickly to the Passaic River. Because of the local topography, stormwater runoff builds up rapidly in the Peckman, overspilling its banks long before the Passaic River crests. On Monday, Sherrill said key provisions were included in the Water Resources Development Act to push the tunnel along. One such provision is the authorization for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to move forward with its plan, officials said. Read More >>

Posted on August 12, 2020 by Matt Fagan, NorthJersey.com

NorthJersey.com: Great American Outdoors Act benefits NJ and the nation

Unfortunately, for years this greatest ally to protect public parks and spaces was not given rightful consideration by Congress. But that has now changed, and just in time to help out with this unforeseen crisis. In March 2019, Congress voted to permanently reauthorize the fund, a long-awaited move championed by my own New Jersey Rep. Mikie Sherrill. Then in June of this year, the Senate passed the Great American Outdoors Act, which both fully and permanently funds the LWCF and addresses the National Park System’s long-delayed $12 billion maintenance backlog. The legislation was then overwhelmingly passed in the House in July, and on Aug. 4, President Donald Trump signed it into law. Read More >>

Posted on August 12, 2020 by Kamal S. Kalsi, NorthJersey.com

NorthJersey.com: NJ Transit’s Wayne bus garage to receive $14.6M federal grant for renovation and repairs

A $14.6 million federal grant will go toward modernizing and renovating NJ Transit's Wayne bus garage, according to an announcement from several lawmakers. Updates to theWest Belt Parkway facility will include roof replacement and preparation for solar panels, upgraded HVAC, fire detection and suppression systems, new energy-efficient lighting, and upgrades so it can support a future electric bus fleet, according to the grant announcement from U.S. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker and U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill. This and other recent federal grant awards allow NJ Transit "to better align service with demand and enhance capacity on the routes with the heaviest ridership throughout Northern New Jersey," Kevin Corbett, CEO and president of the agency, said in a statement. Read More >>

Posted on August 07, 2020 by Colleen Wilson, NorthJersey.com

NJ.com: N.J.’s crumbling national parks could get major relief after Trump signs new law

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-11th Dist., said on the floor of the House in July that New Jerseyans, who live in the nation’s most densely populated state, are keenly aware of the importance of a clean open space. “For too long, [Land and Water Conservation Fund’s] promise of protecting our nation’s public lands has been broken, as the fund has been diverted,” Sherrill added. “The [Great American Outdoors Act] would, for the first time, mandate that such funds are used as intended, to protect public lands and waters support public access, and provide an economic boost to communities. I’m so glad Congress has stepped up to provide equitable access to the outdoors, by investing in our parks and our public lands at all levels.” Read More >>

Posted on August 05, 2020 by Michael Sol Warren, NJ.com

Patch: Essex County Getting $1.8M From FEMA For Coronavirus Recovery

Almost $2 million in federal funds are on the way to help one of New Jersey's hardest-hit counties recover from the coronavirus pandemic, officials recently announced. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded Essex County a $1.78 million public assistance grant, according to a joint statement from U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Representatives Albio Sires, Donald Payne Jr., Mikie Sherrill and Tom Malinowski. The lawmakers said the money will make a big difference in Essex County, which led the state with 1,861 confirmed COVID-19 deaths as of Monday, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. Read More >>

Posted on August 05, 2020 by Eric Kiefer, Patch

US Chamber of Commerce: National Audubon Society, The Pew Charitable Trusts and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Praise Enactment of the Great American Outdoors Act

“We’re proud of the vast coalition of organizations and members of the public who rallied to make their voices heard in support of this legislation, and we’re thankful to the bill’s primary sponsors—Senators Cory Gardner, Joe Manchin, Steve Daines, and Mark Warner, and Representatives Joe Cunningham, Mike Simpson, Mikie Sherrill, and Brian Fitzpatrick—and to all the members of Congress who supported this bipartisan effort. The Great American Outdoors Act will address a critical repair backlog within our national parks, forests, and other public land agencies. It will also permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which provides critical resources to states and local governments for open space and resilience projects. In doing so, it will ensure that $900 million in annual royalties from energy companies is directed to its intended purposes. The Great American Outdoors Act is even more important during this pandemic, because starting the overdue repair work will help create jobs that communities and businesses need for their economic recovery.” Read More >>

Posted on August 04, 2020 by US Chamber of Commerce

MilitaryTimes: House women veterans caucus wants action on Vanessa Guillen murder, sexual misconduct reforms

The House women veterans caucus is demanding congressional hearings into the killing of Fort Hood soldier Spc. Vanessa Guillen and broader inquiries into solutions to the military’s problem of sexual assault. “For too long, sexual assault has been a shameful and unacceptable part of our military. As former service members, we have experienced and witnessed sexual harassment in our own careers and know firsthand that it is past time for serious change,” the women wrote in a letter to the leadership of both the House and Senate Armed Services Committees late Wednesday. They are calling for the military oversight committees to schedule hearings. “Our military members face countless threats when they choose to support and defend our country, including dangerous missions all over the world. And while this may be part of the job, threats, mistreatment, and sexual assault at the hands of fellow service members are not.” Read More >>

Posted on July 30, 2020 by Leo Shane III, MilitaryTimes

Courthouse News: House Approves $50 Billion in Aid to Child Care Industry

Representative Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., drove this point home during an impassioned plea ahead of the vote Wednesday, noting that the gender impact in child care was indisputable. Nineteen million children live in a single parent household, and 70% of those are households run by single mothers, she said. “Women will be forced to choose between staying at home or going to work and if kids feel unsafe, it will be mom staying home in the majority of cases,” Sherrill said. “If women have to leave the workforce and cut back hours, these decisions will have long lasting impacts on their careers, their pay and the economic security of their children.” Read More >>

Posted on July 29, 2020 by Brandi Buchman, Courthouse News

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