New Jersey is poised to establish its inaugural dedicated advocate for veterans. Governor Mikie Sherrill has put forth the nomination of Michael Embrich, a U.S. Navy veteran who served in Iraq, for a newly formed role within the Office of the Veteran Advocate. This initiative, created by the New Jersey Legislature in 2025, aims to serve as an independent voice for the state’s vast veteran community.
About the Nominee: Michael Embrich
Michael Embrich brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He served during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, gaining recognition for his contributions aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt. Embrich has previously held the position of policy advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs, arriving with numerous accolades, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. Upon his nomination, Embrich expressed profound gratitude to Governor Sherrill, emphasizing her long-standing commitment to veterans’ issues. He stated, “It is an honor to be nominated to serve as New Jersey’s first Veteran Advocate, where I will strive to be a respected voice for veterans and their families.”
The Role of the New Office
The Office of the Veteran Advocate is designed to be a vital resource for veterans and their families, providing a platform for them to voice their concerns. This new office will oversee veterans’ homes and facilities throughout New Jersey, endowed with the authority to investigate any allegations of misconduct. Importantly, it will operate autonomously from the state’s Department of Veterans Affairs, which is also in its early stages of implementation, ensuring a broader scope of oversight. With a significant population of over 338,000 veterans in New Jersey, the establishment of this office comes in response to the pressing need for enhanced advocacy and support services. Governor Sherrill has allocated $11 million in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget specifically for veterans’ housing and the advocate’s new role.
Importance of Independent Advocacy
Governor Sherrill, who is also a Navy veteran, believes that New Jersey’s veterans deserve robust, impartial representation that prioritizes their well-being. She noted, “Veterans require a strong, independent voice dedicated entirely to their welfare and to ensuring that government provides the care and services they have earned.” With a history of working for veterans at various levels of government, Embrich’s nomination is believed to contribute to fostering a stronger commitment to veterans’ issues in the state.
Following a National Trend
New Jersey’s move aligns with a growing trend among other states in the U.S. that have also established dedicated advocates for veterans. New Hampshire set a precedent in 2013 by creating the Veterans’ Ombudsman, tasked with overseeing state-run institutions for veterans. In 2022, Massachusetts launched the Office of the Veteran Advocate in response to serious shortcomings revealed during the coronavirus pandemic that impacted veterans’ homes. Vincent Solomeno, the commissioner of the state’s Department of Veterans Affairs, has emphasized the necessity for responsive and transparent services for veterans, reflected in Embrich’s extensive background in public service and advocacy.
As New Jersey prepares for this pivotal change, the establishment of the Office of the Veteran Advocate marks a significant step towards ensuring that veterans receive the attention and resources they rightfully deserve, paving the way for a stronger supportive framework for those who have served the nation. With Embrich’s confirmation pending in the state Senate, the hope is that this new office will set a benchmark for veteran advocacy across the country.