WASHINGTON (AP) — New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy announced on Sunday that she is pausing her U.S. Senate campaign to fill in for Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez as he deals with federal corruption charges.
Murphy explained in a video shared on social media that in order to win the Democratic primary, she would have to engage in “a very divisive and negative campaign.”
“With Donald Trump on the ballot and so much at stake for our nation, I will not in good conscience waste resources tearing down a fellow Democrat,” Murphy said.
Her decision to withdraw likely paves the way for U.S. Rep. Andy Kim in the Democratic primary on June 4. Kim is mounting a more serious challenge than usual against a well-connected political figure in a state where connections are very important.
Menendez stated that he would not participate in that primary but did not rule out running for reelection as an independent.
Murphy, a first-time candidate, had the support of influential Democratic figures. Kim has made a key part of his campaign about changing the state’s unique ballot design, which is widely seen as favoring candidates preferred by county party insiders.
“New Jersey’s next senator must focus on the issues of our time and not be mired in tearing others down while dividing the people of our party and state,” she said.
Kim, a mild-mannered three-term congressman, is perhaps best known for being photographed cleaning debris from the U.S. Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection. He won several state county committee votes, including in his and Murphy’s home counties.
The stakes are high, with Democrats vying to maintain their slim control of the Senate.
Republicans have their own primary underway, with businessman Curtis Bashaw, Mendham Borough Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner and former TV news reporter Alex Zdan.
Menendez strongly denies accusations that he and his wife received bribes in the form of gold bars, cash, and a luxury car from three New Jersey businessmen seeking favors. The couple is set to go on trial in May.
