Updated: December 02, 2025
Hey there, if you’re curious about the personal side of one of New Jersey’s rising political stars, you’ve landed in the right spot. Mikie Sherrill, the freshly elected governor of the Garden State, isn’t just a powerhouse in politics—she’s got a rock-solid family backing her every step. At the heart of it all is her husband, Jason Hedberg, a fellow Navy vet who’s been her partner in crime (the good kind) for over two decades. In this post, we’ll dive into who Jason is, how they met, and what makes their family tick. Whether you’re a fan of Mikie Sherrill’s career or just love a great love story with a side of public service, stick around. Let’s unpack it all.
Table of Contents
Who Is Jason Hedberg? Meet Mikie Sherrill’s Steadfast Partner
Jason Hedberg might not be the one on the campaign trail giving fiery speeches, but he’s the quiet force keeping things grounded for Mikie Sherrill. Born and raised with that same all-American grit as his wife, Jason is an investment banker who’s recently stepped into a new role at the Royal Bank of Canada. Picture this: a guy who’s navigated high-stakes finance deals while juggling family life in their cozy seven-bedroom home in Montclair, New Jersey—where they’ve planted roots since 2010.
What I love most about Jason is his low-key vibe. In a May Instagram video that went semi-viral among supporters, he introduced himself while handing out campaign signs, saying, “Mikie’s bio makes her sound incredible—and she is.” Humble, right? But don’t let the suit fool you; Jason’s got Navy roots just like Mikie. They both graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1994, part of that groundbreaking class where women like her could finally fly combat missions. It’s no wonder their bond is unbreakable—they’ve been married for 20 years, facing everything from helicopter flights over the Middle East to the chaos of raising four kids. Jason’s role as the upcoming “first gentleman” of New Jersey? He’s all in, ready to support Mikie’s vision while keeping the family fires burning.
A Naval Academy Love Story: How Mikie and Jason Met
Ah, the classic meet-cute—except theirs involves fighter jets, rigorous drills, and a cheating scandal that made headlines 30 years later. Mikie Sherrill and Jason Hedberg crossed paths at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, back in the early ’90s. She was the determined young woman inspired by her WWII pilot grandfather, dreaming of the skies. He was right there in the mix, training to serve his country too.
Their romance blossomed amid the academy’s intensity, but it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Fast-forward to 2025’s gubernatorial race, and an old electrical engineering exam cheating scandal resurfaced, snagging both of them in the controversy. Reports suggest Jason had some involvement, and Mikie was barred from walking at graduation for refusing to rat out classmates. She owned it head-on during debates, framing it as a lesson in integrity. Through the noise, their story shines: two academy grads who turned shared trials into a lifelong partnership. It’s the kind of narrative that reminds us politics is personal, and love like theirs? It’s battle-tested.
Building a Family Legacy: Mikie Sherrill and Jason’s Four Kids
Nothing says “power couple” like raising a brood of future leaders while conquering state capitols. Mikie and Jason are proud parents to four energetic kids: Margaret, Lincoln, Ike, and Marit. The family’s Montclair home isn’t just a house—it’s a hub of laughter, homework battles, and golden retriever cuddles with their pup, Goose.
Details on the little ones are kept private (smart move in politics), but here’s the scoop: Margaret and Lincoln are already making waves at the U.S. Naval Academy, following Mom and Dad’s footsteps. Talk about legacy! Ike and Marit round out the crew, bringing that everyday kid chaos that keeps everyone real. On election night, November 4, 2025, when Mikie clinched the governorship against Jack Ciattarelli, the whole family hit the stage at the Hilton East Brunswick Hotel. Jason and the kids cheered her on, a heartwarming snapshot of support amid the confetti.
To give you a quick visual on their family dynamic, check out this table highlighting key details:
| Family Member | Relation to Mikie | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Jason Hedberg | Husband | Naval Academy grad turned investment banker; married 20 years |
| Margaret Hedberg | Daughter | Attending U.S. Naval Academy; aspiring leader in the making |
| Lincoln Hedberg | Son | Also at Naval Academy; carries the family service torch |
| Ike Hedberg | Son | Keeps the home lively with sibling adventures |
| Marit Hedberg | Daughter | The youngest, adding joy to their Montclair nest |
| Goose | Family Dog | Golden retriever who’s basically the fifth kid |
It’s clear this crew is tight-knit, blending military discipline with modern family vibes.
The Support System Behind the Spotlight
- Unwavering Teamwork: Jason’s been Mikie’s biggest cheerleader, from her congressional flips in 2018 to this governor win—handling home front so she can fight for NJ families.
- Shared Values: Both Navy alums, they prioritize service, education, and resilience, even amid scandals that test the waters.
- Balancing Act: With four kids and demanding careers, they’ve mastered the juggle—think school runs mixed with policy brainstorming.
- Public Pride: Jason’s rare cameos, like that sign-delivery vid, show he’s game for the spotlight when it counts.
Conclusion: A Partnership Poised for Greatness
Mikie Sherrill’s husband, Jason Hedberg, isn’t just a footnote in her story—he’s the co-author. Their journey from Naval Academy sweethearts to New Jersey’s first family embodies grit, love, and quiet strength. As Mikie steps into the governor’s office in January 2026, with Jason by her side and their kids cheering from the wings, it’s a reminder that the best leaders are backed by the best teams. What’s next for this dynamic duo? More wins for the Garden State, no doubt. If you’re inspired by their tale, drop a comment below—what’s your take on political power couples? Thanks for reading, and here’s to more real stories in the mix.