It was recently announced that Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill would be sworn in as the next governor of New Jersey in….Newark.

This decision has broken a time-honored tradition of governors being sworn in at the capitol of New Jersey…Trenton.

For historical perspective, Trenton officially became the capital of New Jersey on November 25, 1790, when the state legislature passed a law designating it as the permanent seat of government, solidifying its role after serving as a frequent meeting place and temporary U.S. capital.

There have been 56 governors over that time period. In all of that time, Governor Christie Whitman in 1998 was the only one sworn outside of Trenton, but it was because the War Memorial was under repair and not available.

This decision by Governor-elect Sherrill is misguided and continues to demonstrate how the state of NJ views its capital. A capital that is considered the worst state capital in the country.  A recent video that was sent to me included Trenton as one of the five worst places to be at night. This, in spite of the fact that the state DCA has had oversight of the city for the last fifteen years.

I saw the mayor’s response, and it angered me.

“Trenton is proud to be New Jersey’s Capital City. While the decision to hold the inauguration elsewhere is disappointing, we respect the Governor-elect’s choice and look forward to working with the new Administration to advance policies that strengthen our capital city and the entire state.”

Bla bla bla disappointing. In other words, he will bend the knee, kiss the ring, and not stand up for this city as it is once again disrespected by state leadership.

Where are those politicians who are elected by this community to represent it? Local, county, and state politicians should come together and visit the governor-elect and demand she rethink this decision.

There will be those who will say, “she walked through the city streets and spoke to folks. She’s different.”  And in her first official act, Governor-elect Sherrill disregards the capital, knowing no one will challenge that decision.

I recognize I will not be making many friends with this opinion.  My father showed me by his example that there are times when individuals must stand up for what is right.  Even if it brings criticism, derision, and disrespect.  This is one of those times.

I know I have no power.  All I am is an individual who grew up in this city and served it for 26 years, doing my best to fight off its decline.  I am speaking for the thousands like me, and ask that the new governor change her mind, honor this city and have her inauguration here in Trenton.

Where is the champion for this city?   Who will fight party politics and put the city before party?  Who will fight for this city and ensure that it is no longer pushed aside, forgotten, and left out?  Camden has Donald Norcross, who would never have allowed this to occur.  Trenton?   No one knows.

For this city to have any real chance, it needs a leader willing to upend the apple cart, go toe to toe with anyone who isn’t on board with making the necessary changes in improving Trenton, and that will fight for the people of this city as opposed to just going along because the party said so.

IT IS TIME!!