FREEHOLD - If there's one thing that can bring people together in these polarizing political times, booze appears to be it.

Mikie Sherrill dropped into the 618 Restaurant on Park Avenue Friday afternoon to sign a bipartisan bill that allows for the sale of "to go" cocktails in New Jersey.

She was joined at the podium by local Democratic lawmakers, but also by Matt Borowski, the restaurant owner, who confessed to originally registering as a Republican.

Just so he would not feel lonely, the audience included Republican state Sen. Declan O'Scanlan.

O'Scanlan said simply that when government does smart things, both parties can get together.

The impetus of today's event dates back to the pandemic when bars and restaurants in the state were given permission to sell cocktails and other alcoholic beverages in take-out containers. The obvious goal was to give owners help at a time when many were not leaving their homes.

That permission remained in effect after the pandemic ended, but it was scheduled to end in a few days - on Sept. 1.

Not anymore.

The legislation Sherrill signed makes the selling of to-go cocktails permanent.

"Giving our guests the opportunity to bring a piece of our brand home with them is priceless,” Borowski said.

O'Scanlan said this is an example of state government cutting regulations to help the restaurant industry. He said he hopes there is more to come.

The liquor industry in the state is heavily-regulated dating back to the end of Prohibition and the fear of mob-influence - factors that may no longer be in play.

State Sen. Vin Gopal seemed to find the upbeat atmosphere a bit intoxicating.

"This is really a great day. It's a bipartisan day," he said.

The governor stressed other steps she has taken to help the liquor industry, noting that bar operating hours were extended during World Cup matches - and not surprisingly, more beer than usual was sold and consumed.

In a nod to the setting for the bill signing, Sherriill said that the 618 Restaurant has been named the most romantic restaurant in New Jersey by OpenTable five years in a row.

Since the topic du jour was about cocktails to-go, the governor was asked about her preferences.

She says it may depend on the day, but, generally, she likes "spicy" cocktails.