Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat running for governor of New Jersey, has remained silent following the death of convicted cop killer Joanne Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur. Chesimard was convicted of the 1973 murder of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster before escaping prison and living in exile in communist Cuba.
Sherrill’s refusal to comment has drawn attention as elected officials across the political spectrum issued strong statements condemning Chesimard’s legacy. Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli called Chesimard “a cop killer” who evaded justice and stated that her death should not overshadow the crime she committed. Democrat Governor Phil Murphy also acknowledged that justice was never fully served and promised to seek the return of her remains to New Jersey.
Multiple members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation responded with similar clarity. Rep. Josh Gottheimer called her a fugitive who “escaped accountability” and emphasized the ongoing grief for Foerster’s family and fellow officers. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. praised Foerster’s service and sacrifice, stating that his memory must be honored by standing firmly against those who murder law enforcement.
Chesimard was convicted in 1977 of first-degree murder, assault, and escape-related charges for her role in the fatal shooting on the New Jersey Turnpike. She escaped from prison in 1979 and resurfaced in Cuba by 1984, where she was shielded from extradition. She remained one of the FBI’s most wanted fugitives until her recent death.
Sherrill’s campaign did not respond to multiple media inquiries for comment. Her silence has sparked criticism from law enforcement supporters and political observers who see the issue as a defining test of leadership in the state’s gubernatorial race.
