New Jersey's first lady, Tammy Murphy, has officially announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat in 2024. The announcement was made via a social media video where she outlined her goals to lower the cost of living, protect abortion rights, end the gun violence epidemic, and defend democracy. Murphy, who is the wife of current Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat elected for a second term in 2021, has previously been involved in state legislative elections and has played a key role in the state's pandemic response.
Murphy's campaign focuses on issues such as women's rights, maternal and infant mortality, climate change education, and economic diversification. She also aims to lower the cost of living for New Jersey families, including reducing taxes for working families and decreasing healthcare costs. Murphy, a financier and former Goldman Sachs employee, has never held elected office but has been active in public service as first lady since 2018.
The Senate seat is currently held by Sen. Bob Menendez, who is facing federal charges of bribery and conspiracy. Menendez, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, is also facing challenges from at least five other Democrats. Other potential candidates include Rep. Andy Kim and possibly U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, who has lost party support amid federal bribery charges. On the Republican side, Mendham Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner is also seeking the Senate seat.
The primary is expected to be divisive, with Murphy likely to have the backing of county leaders and Kim recently winning the endorsement of progressive group SOMA Action. Menendez responded to Murphy's announcement with a scathing statement, accusing Gov. Phil Murphy of trying to clear the way for his wife's candidacy.