NJ Governor Mikie Sherrill Booed at Devils Game Amid Celebration of Olympic Hero Jack Hughes
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill faced a warm welcome mixed with a chilly reception during the recent New Jersey Devils hockey game at the Prudential Center. Despite the excitement surrounding the NHL return of Team USA Olympic star Jack Hughes, Sherrill was met with significant boos from the Newark crowd when introduced for a ceremonial puck drop.
Jack Hughes Returns to Ice
Celebrating Olympic Success
The event was particularly special as it marked the return of Jack Hughes, who made headlines by scoring the decisive goal in the gold medal match against Canada. His achievements were celebrated by fans, who chanted "U-S-A!" in unison, underscoring the patriotism and enthusiasm for the Olympic victory.
A Royal Reception for Hughes
Hughes expressed his gratitude and pride in addressing the fans:
"I’m so proud and I’m so happy that the men’s and women’s USA hockey teams brought gold medals back to the United States of America. You guys are making me emotional."
Governor Sherrill’s Controversial Presence
Mixed Reactions from Fans
When Sherrill was announced for the puck drop, the audience’s response was anything but supportive. The loud booing overshadowed the festivities, prompting many on social media to comment on the dismissal of the governor:
- “You managed to somehow get booed loudly during the most festive thing at the Rock ever.”
- “Didn’t everyone boo you?”
Background on Sherrill’s Criticism
Sherrill has been under scrutiny since her 2025 campaign, where controversies arose including disciplinary actions related to her Naval Academy graduation. While attending the game, she commented on the circumstances surrounding her graduation:
"I didn’t turn in some of my classmates, so I didn’t walk but graduated and was commissioned as an officer in the US Navy, serving for nearly ten years with the highest level of distinction and honor."
This history likely contributed to the mixed reactions from the crowd.
Legal Challenges for Sherrill
In a further twist, just days prior to the event, the Department of Justice announced a lawsuit against New Jersey and Sherrill. The lawsuit accuses the state of implementing policies perceived as obstructing federal immigration enforcement, adding another layer to Sherrill’s contentious public image.
Celebrating the Olympians
Despite the controversy surrounding Sherrill, the celebration of the Olympic athletes captured the spirit of the evening.
Tribute to Olympians
Prior to the puck drop against the Buffalo Sabres, the Devils honored all their Olympians from 2026, creating an electrifying atmosphere that was reminiscent of a triumphant homecoming. Hughes, in particular, received an outpouring of support, reinforcing the pride of the New Jersey supporters.
Conclusion: An Evening of Highs and Lows
While Sherrill’s presence was largely overshadowed by the crowd’s reaction, the night was ultimately one of celebration and pride for the achievements of USA hockey. Players like Jack Hughes reminded fans of the spirit of the game, emphasizing the importance of unity and national pride.
For more updates on the New Jersey Devils and their Olympians, visit NHL.com.
Related Topics
In this mix of emotional highs and public disapproval, the Prudential Center became a stage not just for a hockey game but for a complex narrative surrounding sports, politics, and public sentiment in New Jersey.
