Mikie Sherrill brought a unique military and national security background to Congress as a former Navy helicopter pilot who served multiple tours and later worked as a federal prosecutor. She flipped a traditionally Republican district in suburban New Jersey during the 2018 blue wave, running on a platform that emphasized her defense credentials and pragmatic approach to governance. Known for her measured, data-driven style and focus on issues like infrastructure and veterans' affairs, Sherrill has positioned herself as a centrist voice within the Democratic caucus. Her military experience has made her a prominent Democratic spokesperson on national security matters and a frequent critic of what she views as threats to democratic institutions.