New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has appointed Shirley Emehelu as lieutenant governor and secretary of state. The appointment marks the first time in state history that New Jersey will be led by both a woman governor and lieutenant governor.  

This was announced in a statement by the Office of the Governor of New Jersey on Monday, which said Ms Emehelu assumed office on Monday, following a selection process involving consultations and vetting.

According to the statement, Ms Emehelu reflects the New Jersey administration’s commitment to accountable leadership and public service.

“I promised to bring a different kind of leadership to Trenton—rooted in accountability, relentless dedication to service, and a commitment to putting New Jerseyans first. Shirley embodies those values.

“From prosecuting financial fraud and rooting out waste and abuse, to defending civil rights and protecting consumers, Shirley has fought for New Jersey families at every step of her career.” Mr Sherrill said.

Ms Emehelu also thanked Mr Sherrill for the appointment and the opportunity to serve as lieutenant governor.

“I am honoured by Governor Sherrill’s trust and the opportunity to serve the people of New Jersey as lieutenant governor. I’ve spent my career upholding the law, protecting families, and rooting out fraud, abuse, and corruption.

“As lieutenant governor and continuing my role as secretary of state, I’ll bring that same tenacity to lowering costs, expanding opportunity for every community, and ensuring government delivers for the people we serve,” she said.

Ms Emehelu served as acting comptroller from the beginning of Mr Sherrill’s administration, leading efforts to tackle fraud, waste and abuse and strengthen government accountability.

She previously served as New Jersey’s executive assistant attorney general from 2022 to 2024, overseeing more than 500 attorneys and handling civil rights, consumer protection and other legal matters.

Ms Emehelu also spent nine years prosecuting financial fraud at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Yale University and a law degree from Yale Law School.

The appointment attracted commendations from political leaders and civil rights advocates, who praised Ms Emehelu’s record of public service and commitment to accountability.

Former U.S. Treasury Undersecretary Jim Johnson and Congressman Rob Menendez described her as a dedicated public servant committed to justice and protecting residents’ interests.

Former deputy chief of staff to New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine Jeannine LaRue and Southern Poverty Law Centre CEO Ryan Haygood also welcomed the appointment, highlighting its significance for women and the Black community.

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey also expressed confidence in her role in protecting voting rights and civil liberties.