Today, Essex County Sheriff Armando B. Fontoura endorsed Mikie Sherrill for Governor of New Jersey, citing her strong partnership with law enforcement and her relentless focus on results for the people she serves. Fontoura is New Jersey’s longest-serving sheriff, first elected in 1991 and then re-elected by Essex County residents 10 times.

“I’ve been in law enforcement for nearly 60 years, so I’ve seen up close what real leadership and a productive partnership with Trenton looks like. That’s why I’m endorsing Mikie Sherrill to be New Jersey’s next governor — she has what it takes to cut through red tape and truly make life better for the people of this state.

“Here in Essex County, we couldn’t ask for a better partner than Mikie. Having served as a federal prosecutor, she understands what justice means and the responsibility to keep our communities safe. In fact, Mikie is the only candidate in this race who has actually worked in a law enforcement capacity.

“Mikie consistently listens to concerns from constituents and local elected officials — and then she fights like hell to get the job done. After hearing from local law enforcement about the scourge of auto thefts in North Jersey, Mikie secured nearly $2,000,000 in federal funding for Essex and Morris Counties Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) Programs. She also led efforts to pass a funding increase for the federal COPS Program, helping us hire and train more law enforcement officers.

“That’s the type of leadership we need in Trenton — no-nonsense, just focused on results that serve the people. That’s why this June, I’ll be proudly casting my ballot for Mikie Sherrill in the Democratic Primary.”