Gov. Mikie Sherrill Tops NJBIZ Power 100 List Despite Publication's Policy Against Government Officials

Gov. Mikie Sherrill has claimed the top spot on NJBIZ’s 2026 Power 100 list, marking a notable exception to the business publication’s policy of excluding government officials from its influential rankings.

NJBIZ stopped including government officials in its Power lists several years ago, according to editor Jeffrey Kanige, because the publication focuses on business leaders and because government officials “derive their power mainly from the offices they hold rather than from the persuasiveness of their intellects or effectiveness of their actions.”

However, Sherrill’s inclusion reflects her early impact on New Jersey’s business community even before taking office, according to the publication. When the list was compiled and finalized, Sherrill had not yet been sworn in but was already making decisions that would affect business interests, NJBIZ reported.

“By most accounts, the governor has gotten off to a strong start, issuing executive orders designed to begin the process of fulfilling her campaign promises,” Kanige wrote in the publication’s explanation.

The recognition stems from what NJBIZ described as “the magnitude of Sherrill’s electoral victory last fall and the reception she is receiving during these first weeks of her term.” The publication noted that her first acts as governor directly affected business interests despite not having completely assumed power at the time.

NJBIZ acknowledged that readers would question the decision to include Sherrill given the publication’s established criteria. “And they deserve an explanation,” Kanige wrote, defending the choice based on her early administrative actions and their anticipated impact on the state’s business landscape.

The remainder of the Power 100 list follows NJBIZ’s traditional criteria, with several key factors shaping this year’s rankings. The upcoming World Cup and its expected economic impact on the region played an important role in determining list positions, according to the publication. The increasing prominence of artificial intelligence also guided many editorial decisions.

Healthcare’s continuing significance in New Jersey’s economy is reflected throughout the rankings, NJBIZ reported. These sectors represent areas where the publication’s editorial staff identified leaders making substantial contributions to the state’s business environment.

The Power Lists are compiled by NJBIZ’s editorial staff based on reporting throughout the previous year, with input from field experts and reader recommendations. The publication seeks individuals who have gained public attention for professional accomplishments and public service.

“Each list identifies individuals who, through their efforts, are helping to make New Jersey a better place to live, work and do business,” according to NJBIZ’s methodology statement. The publication clarifies that honorees are not necessarily superior to others in their professions but have contributed meaningfully to advancing public interest through their work or community service.

The top 10 names appear in numerical order, while the remaining 90 positions are arranged alphabetically. NJBIZ encourages reader feedback about the selections and potential omissions for future consideration.

Sherrill’s placement represents a significant moment for both the governor and the publication, as NJBIZ breaks from its established practice to recognize her early influence on New Jersey’s business community. The decision reflects the publication’s assessment that her actions warrant recognition despite her governmental role.

The full Power 100 list recognizes leaders across various sectors who have shaped New Jersey’s business landscape over the past year. NJBIZ continues to seek nominations from readers for future Power Lists, maintaining its commitment to identifying influential figures driving positive change across the state’s economy and communities.