CIG Insider 2026: A New Governor, Day-One Policy Strikes, and the Leadership Team Taking Control of Trenton
- Capital Impact Group
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
It's Official... The Sherrill Era Begins
Former Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill was officially sworn in as the 57th Governor of New Jersey this Tuesday at an inauguration ceremony at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in frigid Newark. Her running mate Dr. Dale Caldwell was sworn in as Lieutenant Governor alongside her. Sherrill is only the second woman to serve as New Jersey governor (Republican Christine Todd Whitman was the first), and the first Democratic woman to be elected to that office.
Sherrill delivered a fiery swearing-speech, calling out leaders in DC in what she deemed the "illegal" usurpation of power and "unconstitutional" tariff regimes, vowed to freeze utility rates and tackle the affordability crisis, specifically promising to prevent electric bills from rising another 20%. To underscore that promise, she paused her speech and signed two executive orders at the podium aimed at providing immediate relief for New Jersey families facing "unacceptable" electricity rate hikes.
Rest in Peace Governor Codey
Governor Richard J. “Dick” Codey, the affable and one of New Jersey’s most respected public servants, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Codey became Acting Governor following Jim McGreevey’s resignation and served for 50 continuous years in the state legislature — the longest tenure in New Jersey history. He will be dearly missed by the many people whose lives he touched.
Governor Sherrill and her family escorted Governor Codey’s casket into the State House on January 22nd, to lie in State in the rotunda.
Senior Legislative Advisor Partners with CIG
CIG welcomes Judith P. Fenelus, former Chief of Staff to Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter and CEO of the JPF Group, as counsel and strategic partner.
An ally of CIG since its inception, Judith brings more than twenty years of experience in public policy issues and advocacy at all levels of government. She has advised elected officials, led statewide initiatives, and shaped policy outcomes across education, child well-being, health equity, economic security, and community development.
“Judith is widely respected for her ability to translate complex policy goals into strategies and campaigns that achieve results. As we begin our 20th year as a firm, I am so grateful to have my friend and colleague on our team,” said CIG Principal Gerry Gibbs.
Movers & Shakers
The incoming Governor announced a slew of Cabinet nominations and senior staff appointments leading up to her swearing-in. For the latest info on her team and other administration news click here.
Tim Lydon, former Executive Director for the Senate Majority and Superior Court judge, will serve as Chief Counsel. A huge pickup for the new administration. Talented former Assembly Majority staffer Catherine Tung will head up Governor Sherrill's policy shop, while former Senate staffer and political veteran Jay Redd will lead the Legislative Affairs Unit. CIG’s Eash Haughton will serve as Director of Legislative Affairs, and AOC Director of Government Affairs and veteran political operative Deirdre Naughton will return to the Governor’s Counsel Office.
This week the incoming Governor announced her intention to nominate Ed Potosnak, former Executive Director at the NJ League of Conservation Voters, to be her Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner. Serving as his chief of staff will be energy and environmental policy expert Henry Gajda, who comes from the NJ LCV and NJ BPU.
Jade Bechelli, former Deputy Chief of Staff at the Department of Human Services, was elevated to Chief of Staff to Acting Commissioner Dr. Stephen Cha. A respected Trenton veteran, who served in senior policy roles in the Governor’s Office and Legislature, Jade replaced Jonathan Chebra, who is now a Vice President at Hackensack Meridian Health. Wind and energy expert Madeline Urbish will serve as Senior Advisor on Energy, after heading up public affairs for Orsted, and serving as a policy advisor to Governor Murphy.
Inaugural Ball
Tuesday's ceremony concluded with a black-tie inaugural ball at American Dream in East Rutherford. The high energy party drew more than 2,000 attendees. CIG and its clients were happy to be a part of the celebration!
Please Welcome
Ashley Caldwell joins CIG as its newest intern. A senior at Rutgers University studying Public Policy at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Ashley currently serves as the youngest member of the New Brunswick Board of Education. We hope this semester’s experience leads her further down the path to building a career rooted in impact, integrity, and purpose. Welcome aboard!
Out & About
Going Inside
This week CIG's own Eash Haughton joined the Governor Mikie Sherrill Administration. During his tenure at CIG, Eash was an effective advocate and strategist, representing clients and the firm with integrity and professionalism. We are thrilled to support Eash as he begins his next chapter of public service and thank him for his loyal dedication and lasting contributions to CIG!
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Capital Impact Group is a bipartisan public affairs and business development firm comprised of former public officials and communications experts that advocates for its clients at all levels of government. For more information about Capital Impact Group, please visit www.cignj.com or call (609) 989-5885.
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The CIG Insider is Capital Impact Group’s long-running bi-annual newsletter, offering updates on the latest political developments, legislative issues, and policy trends impacting businesses and organizations across New Jersey. Each edition provides valuable insights from our team, highlighting the people, priorities, and public affairs shaping the state’s landscape. See More