Race for Menendez Senate seat heats up in New Jersey with twists and turns

Candidates had until 4 p.m. Monday to file for the race.

Naomi Yané

Mar 26, 2024, 12:58 AM

Updated 32 days ago

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Monday’s 4 p.m. deadline has come and gone for senate hopefuls amid shakeups in the Democratic party vying for Sen. Bob Menendez’s Senate seat.
One big-name candidate suspending her campaign has widened the path for Rep. Andy Kim to lock in the party’s nomination.
Just a week ago Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop rescinded his endorsement of first lady Tammy Murphy to throw his support behind Kim. Fulop said in part, “After watching the county conventions, I believe that Andy Kim has proven that he's the better candidate, with a clearer message, and he brings a better chance of success in November.”
Murphy suspended her campaign a week later, posting her announcement to her X account on Sunday stating in part, "I have been genuine and factual throughout, but it is clear to me that continuing in this race will involve waging a very divisive and negative campaign -- which I am not willing to do.”
Murphy did not outright endorse Kim, instead, she called for party unity.
Last week in a video statement, embattled Menendez said he wouldn't be running in the Democratic primary on June 4, as he faces federal corruption charges. There is the possibility that he could reenter the race as an independent later this year if he is exonerated at a trial.
Candidates had until 4 p.m. Monday to file for the race.


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