EMILY's List Endorses Rep. Mikie Sherrill in Race for New Jersey Governor

Sherrill is a two-term congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot.

EMILY's List, a national organization that supports Democratic women candidates who support abortion rights, has endorsed Rep. Mikie Sherrill in the race for New Jersey governor.

Sherrill, a two-term congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot, is one of several Democrats running to challenge Republican incumbent Gov. Phil Murphy in the June 7 primary.

EMILY's List President Laphonza Butler said in a statement that Sherrill is "a proven leader who will fight for the issues that matter most to New Jersey families."

Butler cited Sherrill's work on issues such as affordable healthcare, education, and gun safety.

Sherrill said in a statement that she was "honored" to receive the endorsement of EMILY's List.

"I'm running for governor because I believe that New Jersey can be a better place for all of our families," Sherrill said. "I'm grateful for the support of EMILY's List, and I look forward to working with them to elect Democrats up and down the ballot."

Sherrill is considered a top contender in the Democratic primary.

She has outraised her opponents and has the backing of several major labor unions.

Murphy is seeking a second term in office. He is a former Goldman Sachs executive who has been criticized by some Democrats for being too moderate.

The other Democrats running for governor are: Sen. Steve Sweeney, Assemblyman John Wisniewski, and former Assemblyman Phil Murphy.