ISSUESWATCH PODCAST

New Governor, New Vibe: New Jersey’s 2026 Political Outlook

February 23, 2026

Governor Mikie Sherrill has taken office alongside a Democratic supermajority, yet New Jersey business leaders are more optimistic than they’ve been in eight years. Is this a true policy pivot or just a honeymoon phase? Micah Rasmussen of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics joins us to discuss what the first half of 2026 holds for the state’s economy and business community.

Topics discussed:

  • Why the business community is optimistic
  • Gov. Sherrill’s upcoming budget proposal
  • Other short-term issues of interest to the business community
  • Looking ahead

Resources:




              Jeffrey  Kaszerman

              Jeffrey Kaszerman

              Jeff is the vice president of government relations for the NJCPA. He works with the CEO and the Board of Trustees to create and implement advocacy initiatives that protect and promote the interests of the CPA profession, the business community and the public.

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              Micah  Rasmussen

              Micah Rasmussen

              Micah is the director of the Rebovich Institute for New Jersey Politics at Rider University. He has contributed to the public affairs of the state for more than two decades and has more than 15 years of experience as an adjunct professor of political science. As Governor James E. McGreevey's press secretary, Micah handled crisis communications during the Governor's historic resignation. He has served as communications director for the New Jersey Department of Transportation, worked in the New Jersey General Assembly and managed several political campaigns. Micah previously served as vice president for executive communications at Chubb, where he wrote speeches for audiences throughout the world. He also served as director of corporate communications for New Jersey Resources and its primary subsidiary, New Jersey Natural Gas. He also runs the New Jersey Model Congress, a civics education program he founded.