Video: What will Gov. Sherrill do for Desis?

Moments after taking the oath of office, Gov. Mikie Sherrill addressed a number of issues facing New Jerseyans, including the federal tariffs.

While on stage at Newark’s NJPAC, Sherrill addressed the impact on businesses such as Patel Brothers on Edison’s Oak Tree Road. Sherrill visited the popular Desi grocery store while on the campaign trail with Edison Mayor Sam Joshi. A partner with Patel Brothers told Central Desi that he hopes the newly elected governor can help him and other small business owners who import their goods from India.

Last week, I attended Sherrill’s inaugural ball to learn what Desis hope the new governor will address.

Video transcript

NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill: We’re keeping the doors open for the Patel Brothers and businesses on Oak Tree Road in Edison as we navigate a federal tariff regime harming so many store owners and keeping costs high.

Joti Rekhi: That’s New Jersey’s new governor Mikie Sherrill after taking her oath of office—referring to a promise she made on the campaign trail to small business owners who are struggling after the imposition of President Trump’s tariffs. I stopped by Patel Bothers to get their reaction and to learn more about how the tariffs have impacted their business.

Kaushik Patel, Patel Brothers partner: At this level, for the governor to recognize Patel Brothers, that’s a big thing for us.

Joti Rekhi: Kaushik Patel says customers’ shopping habits have changed drastically since the President’s tariffs went into effect for many items at Patel Brothers, which are typically imported from India.

Kaushik Patel: Before they used to buy, ‘Oh, grab it, grab it, grab it,’ [but] now they are controlling it. Because of the tariffs, the price has gone up more than 50 to 70%. So middle and lower middle class are suffering a lot.

Joti Rekhi: I’m Joti Rekhi, and I’m a video fellow with Central Desi. I went to our new governor’s ball here at American Dream Mall to talk to other Desis about what they thought about Oak Tree Road getting that shout out.

Michael Azal, Cherry Hill resident: It’s just nice for our governor to pay attention to small businesses, particularly ones owned by minorities. So it’ll be nice if she can help them out.

Joti Rekhi: The night also featured live Desi dancers—a moment of pride for attendees.

Mohamed Bakerywala, South Brunswick: The Indian population has been increasing, and we see a lot of representation in government, in business, and everywhere else. It’s certainly a matter of pride for us.

Joti Rekhi: At the ball, I ran into Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, who gave the now-governor a tour of area businesses being impacted by the tariffs on the campaign trail.

Edison Mayor Sam Joshi: I’m really proud to have taken her on the small business tour, and I look forward to all the things she’s going to do to help the small business community.

Joti Rekhi: On the trail, Gov. Sherrill said she would make sure small businesses thrive here in New Jersey and join a lawsuit against the tariffs that other states have engaged in. That hasn’t happened yet, but we are closely watching for any action. So, how have the tariffs impacted you? Join in on the conversation by commenting below and be sure to follow.

Joti Kaur Rekhi is the inaugural video reporting fellow at Central Desi. She is a veteran local news anchor and reporter who recently launched her own production company, Harjan.

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January – Dates Vary
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January 31 – IFMP Annual Cultural Show
Event starts at 3 PM
Patriots Theater at the Trenton War Memorial
1 Memorial Drive, Trenton, NJ 08608
The India Foundation of Metropolitan Princeton (IFMP) Annual Cultural Show promises an unforgettable evening filled with music, dance, and community spirit. This annual event brings together talented performers from across the tri-state area for a high-energy celebration of Indian culture that’s perfect for all ages. Tickets are required. RSVP here.

January 31 – Winter Indian Harvest Festival with Ice Skating
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Festivities: 12 PM - 6 PM
Newport Skates
95 River Drive South
Jersey City, NJ 07310
Inspired by the life-giving energy of the sun and Saraswati—the goddess of music, art, and learning—this event honors renewal, gratitude, and togetherness through cultural performances, interactive community moments, and delicious food, in a warm and welcoming space for all ages. This is a free event; RSVP is appreciated.

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