Congressman Kean Announces Sherry Nelson as State of the Union Guest
(February 24, 2026) WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced that Basking Ridge resident, Sherry Nelson, will join him as his guest for President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union Address. Each member of Congress is invited to bring one guest to the annual address. Sherry will be seated in the House Gallery during the speech.
“Sherry is a respected and steady presence in our community. Her work to improve opportunities for those with special needs and disabilities has touched countless lives,” said Congressman Kean. “She is incredibly dedicated to strengthening her community and connecting her neighbors, and I am honored to have her join me as my guest at President Trump's State of the Union tonight.”
“I am honored to join Congressman Kean in the House Chamber for the State of the Union and to witness President Trump’s address firsthand,” said Sherry Nelson. “As a mother of two sons with autism, I know personally how important it is that individuals with special needs and disabilities are cared for and that they have every opportunity to be valued members of our community. Every family deserves the peace of mind that critical programs and services will be there for their loved ones.”
“Congressman Kean has been an incredible leader for New Jersey families, especially for us families in the special needs community,” Sherry continued. “He understands that protecting Medicaid for its intended beneficiaries is crucial. I am grateful for his partnership and proud to stand with him as he continues fighting for families like mine.”
A tireless advocate for disability rights and academic standards in Bernards Township public schools, Sherry is the mother of two autistic children and has championed disability rights for more than two decades. She is the former Co-President of the Bernards Parents for Exceptional Children, a local nonprofit dedicated to advancing disability rights in local schools. Currently, Sherry is working alongside Bernards Township leadership and the Somerset Hills YMCA to expand recreational programming for disabled adults. She is also advocating for greater housing and employment opportunities for disabled adults in the community.
Sherry is a strong supporter of Congressman Kean’s efforts to introduce federal legislation to establish the nation’s first ombudsman for people with disabilities. While serving in the New Jersey State Senate, Congressman Kean sponsored legislation creating the state’s ombudsman office for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring that families had a dedicated advocate in government to connect them with resources and help navigate complex systems. As a member of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus in Congress, Kean is now working to model this type of office at the federal level.
###