Basking Ridge Advocate Joins Congressman for State of the Union

Sherry Nelson, a disability rights champion, was Congressman Tom Kean Jr.'s guest at the annual address.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Basking Ridge resident Sherry Nelson, a longtime advocate for individuals with special needs and disabilities, joined Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. as his guest for President Trump's 2026 State of the Union Address. Nelson, the mother of two sons with autism, has championed disability rights for over two decades and currently works to expand recreational programming and advocate for housing and employment opportunities for disabled adults in her community.

Why it matters

Nelson's invitation to the State of the Union highlights the importance of disability rights and the need for greater support and opportunities for individuals with special needs. Her advocacy work aligns with Congressman Kean's efforts to establish a federal ombudsman office to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The details

Sherry Nelson, a respected community leader in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, was selected by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. to be his guest at the 2026 State of the Union Address. Nelson, the former Co-President of the Bernards Parents for Exceptional Children, has dedicated herself to improving the lives of those with special needs and disabilities. She currently works with local government and the Somerset Hills YMCA to expand recreational programming for disabled adults, and advocates for increased housing and employment opportunities.

  • Sherry Nelson joined Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. as his guest for President Trump's 2026 State of the Union Address on Tuesday night.

The players

Sherry Nelson

A Basking Ridge resident and longtime advocate for individuals with special needs and disabilities. She is the mother of two sons with autism and has championed disability rights for over two decades.

Congressman Tom Kean, Jr.

The U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 7th congressional district, who invited Sherry Nelson to be his guest at the 2026 State of the Union Address. Kean is a member of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus and is working to establish a federal ombudsman office to assist people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Congressman Tom Kean, Jr.

“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.”

— Sherry Nelson

What’s next

Congressman Kean is working to introduce federal legislation to establish the nation's first ombudsman for people with disabilities, modeled after the state-level ombudsman office he sponsored in the New Jersey State Senate.

The takeaway

Sherry Nelson's invitation to the State of the Union highlights the ongoing need for greater support and opportunities for individuals with special needs and disabilities. Her advocacy work, aligned with Congressman Kean's efforts, underscores the importance of ensuring that all members of the community are valued and have access to the resources and services they require.