Obama rallies for Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey gubernatorial race

NEWARK, N.J. – Enthusiasm was high among New Jersey Democratic voters who flocked to a community college campus Saturday evening to hear from former President Barack Obama as he rallied support for Rep. Mikie Sherrill in her campaign for the governorship.

“I heard Barack Obama was gonna be here. And I love Barack Obama, so I really came out here for that,” one voter, Alexis from South Jersey, told Fox Digital. “But I do support Mikie, as well.” 

“I want to hear Obama,” Robert, from Spring Lake, told Fox Digital. “I think a lot of people want to hear Obama. Wouldn’t it be great to have a message of hope at this point in time?” 

Hundreds of supporters wrapped around multiple blocks surrounding the Essex County College’s gymnasium on Saturday to hear from Obama and Sherrill as the New Jersey election comes down to its final days. The packed auditorium hit capacity before the “Get Out the Vote” rally officially kicked off, with supporters also watching the rally from an overflow parking lot. 

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Prominent rally speakers and attendees alike celebrated hearing from Obama on Saturday, but also repeatedly spoke about President Donald Trump, slamming him for efforts to deport illegal aliens, and pinning blame for the ongoing federal government shutdown on Trump and Republicans. 

A handful of voters who spoke to Fox Digital relayed that their ballot was not one solely focused on Sherrill, but also a vote against Trump and his administration.  

“Well, the top issue is Trump,” said Robert from Spring Lake. “There’s nothing else other than that.… Trump is absolutely the worst,” he added, citing that Trump is allegedly “anti-science” and…