CELEBRATING SOME OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL & COURAGEOUS WOMEN IN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY

This carefully curated group of remarkable women serves as a powerful reminder of the value women bring to every space we occupy including politics, business, education, and healthcare. Our voices drive humanity forward, advocating for fairness, dignity, and opportunity, and pushing for fair wages, access to affordable housing and healthcare, expanded educational opportunities, and true economic mobility.

The resilience of women in 2025 was on full display. It kicked into full drive with the People’s March on January 18, a resistance march across the United States and around the globe, where tens of thousands of people came together just two days before the inauguration of the 47th President of the United States. The march expressed resistance to turning the clock back on harmful policies while advocating for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and human rights. There was a powerful sense of solidarity as people united around the world with a shared commitment to building a better future and uplifting humanity.

The fragility of democracy was further on display as we witnessed attacks on inclusive programs that, less than a year ago, embraced diversity and equity. The federal government carried out mass terminations, and by springtime, more than 300,000 Black women had either exited or been pushed out of the workforce, despite Black women having some of the highest educational credentials in the country. This shift carries a dramatic and troubling economic impact for individuals, families, and communities.

New Jersey also emerged as a state to watch with a Governor’s race that reflected both challenge and progress. Among both major parties, only one woman had the courage to enter the race, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. Congresswoman Sherrill secured victories over five male Democratic primary contenders Mayor Ras Baraka, Mayor Steve Fulop, Congressman Josh Gottheimer, former Mayor Sean Spiller, and former Senator Steve Sweeney. She then advanced to the general election and decisively earned voter confidence by defeating Jack Ciattarelli. In doing so, voters sent a clear and powerful message, embracing women as executive leaders and electing the first Democratic woman Governor in New Jersey’s history.

Governor–Elect Mikie Sherrill’s leadership also carried significant coattails, ushering in the largest Democratic supermajority in the New Jersey Legislature since 1973. Victories extended to county, municipal, and school board seats across the state. Once again, voters spoke clearly, recognizing women’s leadership and affirming a broader commitment to inclusion through the power of the ballot.

Further strengthening this moment, Lieutenant Governor Elect Rev. Dr. Dale Caldwell will lead with conviction and brilliance while protecting voter rights in his role as Secretary of State, an essential function in safeguarding democracy. I would also be remiss if I did not acknowledge the three outstanding women who held the position prior, Kim Guadagno, Sheila Y. Oliver and Tahesha Way.

While I have personally made the decision to sunset my political life in the Legislature, I remain deeply hopeful and energized by the work that will continue to advance our great state and serve as a testament to other states on the enduring power of voting. Our differences should be learned, embraced, and encouraged for societal advancement. History has shown us through science, economics, culture, and the arts that progress is born from diversity of thought and experience.

“I am and always will be a catalyst for change.” – Shirley Chisholm

Therefore, I am excited for the release of the Insider NJ 2025 Powerful Women of NJ.

With deep gratitude to Senator Loretta Weinberg.

Download the Insider NJ 2025 Powerful Women of NJ or view it below: