Full Breakdown
Mikie Sherrill Nominates Jennifer Davenport as New Jersey Attorney General
12/16/2025, 4:49:59 AM
Announcement of Nomination
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has officially nominated Jennifer Davenport to serve as New Jersey's next Attorney General. Davenport, who has over 15 years of experience in law enforcement and legal roles, previously held positions as First Assistant Attorney General and Principal Law Enforcement Advisor in the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. She is currently the Deputy General Counsel and Chief Litigation Counsel at Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG).
Background and Qualifications
Davenport's extensive background includes serving as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, where she was Chief of the General Crimes Unit, and as Division Counsel for the New Jersey Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). She has also worked in private practice at firms such as Latham & Watkins and Patton Boggs. Davenport holds degrees from DeSales University and Seton Hall University School of Law.
Core Responsibilities and Priorities
In her new role, Davenport is expected to focus on several key issues, including combating gun violence, human trafficking, and ensuring the affordability of living in New Jersey. During the announcement, she emphasized her commitment to protecting New Jerseyans from federal policies that may adversely affect them. Davenport stated, “One of the greatest threats to affordability is coming from Washington,” indicating her readiness to challenge federal actions that could harm state residents.
Official Statements & Responses
Mikie Sherrill expressed confidence in Davenport’s capabilities, stating, “A strong Attorney General is critical to delivering for New Jerseyans.” Current Attorney General Matthew Platkin also endorsed Davenport, calling her “one of the finest public servants” he has known. The ACLU of New Jersey has expressed optimism about working with Davenport, highlighting their previous productive relationship during her tenure as First Assistant Attorney General.
Criticism & Opposition
While Davenport has garnered bipartisan support from local senators, some concerns have been raised regarding potential conflicts of interest due to her current role at PSEG, especially related to Sherrill's campaign promise to freeze energy rates. Micah Rasmussen, a political analyst, noted that Davenport may need to recuse herself from matters involving energy rate freezes due to her connections with the energy sector.
What's Next
Davenport's nomination requires confirmation from the New Jersey Senate, where she has already received support from her home county senators, Vin Gopal (D) and Declan O’Scanlon (R). Following the confirmation process, Davenport will officially assume her role as Attorney General after Sherrill is sworn in on January 20, 2026.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am so grateful to Governor-elect Sherrill for nominating me to serve as Attorney General.” — Jennifer Davenport, Nominee for Attorney General
- “Jen is, without question, one of the finest public servants I have ever known, and will do an extraordinary job as our State’s chief law enforcement officer,” — Matthew Platkin, Current Attorney General
- “If there’s any conflict of interest or any appearance of a conflict of interest then I would recuse,” — Jennifer Davenport, Nominee for Attorney General
Davenport's appointment marks a significant step in Sherrill's administration as they prepare to address pressing legal and social issues facing New Jersey.
