Foreign Policy for America Announces First Ever Gubernatorial Endorsements 

Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger endorsed by nonpartisan Foreign Policy for America in New Jersey and Virginia Gubernatorial Races  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – MAY 1, 2025

WASHINGTON D.C. - Foreign Policy for America announced today that the organization will be making its first ever gubernatorial endorsements, supporting Representative Mikie Sherrill for election as governor of New Jersey and former Representative Abigail Spanberger for election as governor of Virginia. Both candidates were first elected to Congress in 2018 where they were widely recognized for their leadership and expertise in national security issues. 

“Right now, the American people need leaders they can trust. We need leaders who are committed to protecting and serving their communities—not their own egos or their billionaire friends. That’s why we’re proud to endorse Abigail Spanberger and Mikie Sherrill. While the White House imposes mindless tariffs that will devastate American farmers and small businesses while raising prices, Mikie and Abigail will stand up for common sense solutions that protect New Jersey and Virginia families,” said Andrew Albertson, Executive Director of Foreign Policy for America. “Mikie and Abigail have spent their entire lives serving this country. They’re proven national security leaders who understand the stakes. We’re proud to support them now as they continue to step up and serve their communities.”   

“I am honored to earn Foreign Policy for America’s endorsement to serve as the next Governor of Virginia. I’ve always been guided by a deep commitment to service. I began my career in federal law enforcement before serving undercover at CIA, defending the U.S. Constitution and keeping Americans safe from terrorism. At a time when Virginia is facing unprecedented attacks — attacks on Virginians’ jobs, our economy, and families’ personal freedoms, my commitment to service in this moment is stronger than ever,” said Abigail Spanberger. “As Governor, I will work tirelessly to lower the cost of living for Virginia’s families, expand trade opportunities for Virginia businesses, strengthen our children’s schools, keep our communities safe, and protect Virginians’ fundamental freedoms. I am grateful for FP4A’s continued support as we push back against the chaos coming out of Washington and work to build a brighter future for our Commonwealth.” 

“I am honored to earn Foreign Policy for America’s first ever gubernatorial endorsement. As Donald Trump abandons our democratic values and manufactures a global trade war with tariffs that are hurting New Jerseyans, we are going to need strong Democratic governors to step up. And that’s exactly what I will do. As governor, I will work with our allies to protect New Jersey against retaliation, and conduct trade missions to develop economic relationships with New Jersey’s biggest trading partners. I’ll work to build more housing, expand New Jersey’s energy production, and reduce costs from health care to groceries. I am grateful to have Foreign Policy for America on the team as we fight back against Washington and chart a different path forward for the Garden State,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill

Rep. Mikie Sherrill is serving her fourth term in Congress as the Representative of New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. Previously, Rep. Sherrill served almost 10 years as a Sea King helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy flying missions in Europe and the Middle East. After leaving the Navy, Rep. Sherrill joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey where she served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Abigail Spanberger served three terms in Congress as the Representative of Virginia’s 7th Congressional District. Prior to entering Congress, Spanberger served as a federal agent with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service before transitioning to work as a case officer with the Central Intelligence Agency. After leaving federal service in 2014, Spanberger joined the private sector where she worked in higher education. 

Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger are the first candidates FP4A has endorsed in 2025. Our endorsed candidates are chosen because of their consistent support for strong, principled U.S. leadership.  

Foreign Policy for America is a nonpartisan advocacy organization working to strengthen support for principled U.S. leadership in the world. We support policies that keep Americans safe and out of conflicts, advance prosperity for all, and are true to our country’s highest values.    

Media Contact: Rana Nejad, rana.nejad@fp4america.org