Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s (D-N.J.) win in the New Jersey governor’s race offered a much-needed shot in the arm for Democrats on Tuesday, raising questions around what the election results could mean for both parties heading into next year’s midterms.

Sherrill defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli in his third run for New Jersey governor, as the New Jersey congresswoman sought to tie her opponent to President Trump and nationalize the race. Sherrill looked to make the race a referendum largely on Trump, while Ciattarelli aimed to make it a referendum on Democratic control over the state in a race dominated by affordability and high energy costs.

Despite competing crosswinds for both candidates, Sherrill was able to land an early win and cement Democratic control of the governor’s mansion for another four years.

Here’s what the New Jersey governor’s race could mean for the 2026 midterms:

Sherrill’s win underscores Democratic enthusiasm

Sherrill’s win on Tuesday underscored clear Democratic enthusiasm, which became a running theme throughout the night as the party also won competitive elections for Virginia governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general, in addition to two key spots on the Georgia Public Service Commission.

The New Jersey governor’s race turned........

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