U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday was elected governor of New Jersey, defeating Jack Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by President Donald Trump.

Sherrill's victory raised hopes for Democrats and highlighted Republican vulnerabilities after there had been signs of a rightward shift in recent years in what has been a reliably blue state.

Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot and four-term member of Congress quickly cast her victory late Tuesday as a referendum on the Republican president and some of his policies — from health care to immigration and the economy.

Ciattarelli called Sherrill to congratulate her on the results and did not mention Trump in his address.