Drama at the Prudential Center! NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game while honoring Olympic hero Jack Hughes. Read about the viral moment, the political backlash, and Hughes’ emotional homecoming speech.
The atmosphere at the Prudential Center on Wednesday night was supposed to be purely celebratory. However, a wave of unexpected tension hit the ice when NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game attendees erupted in a chorus of disapproval during a pre-game ceremony. It was a stark contrast to the hero’s welcome given to Team USA’s golden boy, Jack Hughes.
Quick Recap: The Scene at the Rock
| Key Event | Details |
| Primary Guest | Team USA Gold Medalist Jack Hughes |
| Political Figure | Governor Mikie Sherrill |
| Crowd Reaction | Relentless boos during ceremonial puck drop |
| Hughes’ Response | Emotional speech thanking fans and NJ |
| Social Media Buzz | Critics mocking the Governor’s “festive” post |
A Night of High Emotions and Sudden Boos
The New Jersey Devils were set to face the Buffalo Sabres, but the real focus was the return of Jack Hughes. Fresh off scoring the gold-medal-winning goal against Canada in Milan, NJ Gov. Mikie Hughes was the man of the hour. The energy was sky-high until the PA announcer introduced Governor Mikie Sherrill and her husband, Jason Hedberg, for the ceremonial puck drop.
The shift in the room was instantaneous. When NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game fans made their voices heard, it wasn’t just a few stray jeers—it was a relentless roar from the Newark crowd. Despite the icy reception, Sherrill continued with the ceremony, presenting the state flag to Hughes. The moment quickly went viral, with many noting that it’s rare to see such a polarized reaction during what was meant to be the state’s most festive sporting event of the year.
Why the Crowd Turned on the Governor
Political analysts and fans alike have pointed to several reasons why NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game onlookers were so vocal. Sherrill has faced mounting criticism following a lawsuit from the Justice Department regarding her administration’s sanctuary policies and a controversial executive order involving federal immigration enforcement.
Furthermore, some fans haven’t forgotten the headlines from her 2025 campaign concerning her time at the Naval Academy. While Sherrill has defended her record, citing nearly ten years of distinguished service in the Navy, the “patriotic” hockey crowd at the Prudential Center seemed more interested in expressing their current frustrations. On social media, users were quick to mock the Governor, with one critic pointing out the irony of getting booed during a celebration for an American Olympic hero.
Jack Hughes Steals Back the Spotlight
Thankfully, the negativity didn’t dampen the spirits of the players for long. Once the focus shifted back to the Olympians, the boos turned into thunderous chants of “U-S-A!” As NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game attendees settled back into their seats, Jack Hughes took the microphone for a heartfelt address.
Hughes, visibly choked up, expressed his immense pride in representing both the United States and the New Jersey Devils. “You guys are making me emotional,” he told the cheering crowd, thanking them for the love and support that the team felt all the way in Italy. It was a reminder that while politics can be divisive, the achievement of a gold medal still has the power to unite a fanbase.
The Social Media Fallout
Following the game, the Governor took to social media to share photos of the event, celebrating the gold medal win. However, the comments section was quickly flooded by those who were present at the arena. The fact that NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game spectators were so loud made it impossible for the Governor to ignore the backlash.
Critics used the platform to remind her of the reception, with many stating that the timing of her appearance felt like a political maneuver that backfired. Despite the online drama, the Devils organization successfully honored all their 2026 Olympians, ensuring that the athletes’ hard work remained the central story of the night.
Conclusion
It was a night that New Jersey sports fans won’t soon forget. From the incredible pride of seeing a local star return with Olympic gold to the viral moment where NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill booed at Devils game crowds made their political stances clear, the evening was a rollercoaster of emotions. While the Governor may have faced a cold reception, the warmth of the fans for Jack Hughes proved that the “Garden State” still knows how to cheer for its champions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why was Governor Mikie Sherrill booed at the Devils game?
Fans appeared to be reacting to recent political controversies, including a Justice Department lawsuit over sanctuary policies and lingering questions regarding her military academy record.
2. Was Jack Hughes also booed during the ceremony?
Not at all. Jack Hughes received a massive standing ovation and chants of “U-S-A!” as he was honored for his gold-medal-winning performance in the 2026 Olympics.
3. What did Jack Hughes say in his speech?
He expressed deep pride in representing the Devils and New Jersey, mentioning that he was nearly moved to tears by the support of the fans.
4. Did the Governor respond to the boos?
While she didn’t address the boos directly during the ceremony, she posted photos to social media celebrating the Olympic win, which led to further criticism from fans who were at the game.
5. Who did the Devils play on the night of the ceremony?
The New Jersey Devils played against the Buffalo Sabres in their first game back since the Olympic break.
