As New Jersey Democrats and Republicans head to the polls on Tuesday to select their parties' candidates for the Senate, the political landscape is dominated by the federal corruption trial of Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Menendez in New York. Menendez, who is facing charges of trading official acts for personal gain, has filed to run as an independent, bypassing the primary ballot.
On the Democratic side, voters are deciding between Rep. Andy Kim, labor leader Patricia Campos-Medina, and grassroots organizer Lawrence Hamm. Meanwhile, the GOP primary features a four-way contest, with hotel developer Curtis Bashaw and Mendham Borough Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner emerging as key contenders.
Despite New Jersey's historical Democratic leanings in Senate elections, the Republicans see Menendez's independent run as a potential opportunity to gain ground in the closely divided Senate. The stakes are high, with Democrats holding a narrow majority.
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are also on the ballot as their parties' presumptive nominees. Additionally, the Democratic Socialists of America are advocating for a protest vote against Biden over his handling of the Gaza conflict, urging delegates to vote 'uncommitted' to send a message about justice for Palestine.
Notably, this year marks the end of the county line ballot system for Democrats, following a lawsuit that challenged its fairness. In contrast, Republicans continue to use the system, with no legislative changes yet proposed to alter the primary process.
House candidates are also being selected in the primary, with several closely watched races tied to Menendez's situation. In the 3rd District, Democratic Assembly members Herb Conaway and Carol Murphy are competing to succeed Kim, while in the 8th District, Rep. Rob Menendez faces a reelection challenge from Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla.
