New Jersey's first lady, Tammy Murphy, announced Sunday that she is withdrawing from the Democratic Senate primary, likely clearing the way for Democratic Congressman Andy Kim to win the nomination.
“After a hectic, exhilarating, and certainly difficult few months, I am suspending my Senate campaign today,” Murphy said in a video posted to social media.
“I've always been honest and factual,” she continued. “But it's clear to me that continuing this race would involve running a very divisive negative campaign, and I don't want to do that.”
“I made this decision because this campaign was never about me. And right now, the best thing we can do for New Jersey is come together and address the real issues at hand. I know it’s about focus,” she added.
Murphy did not endorse Kim in the three-minute video.
The first lady's campaign drew some criticism, with many dissatisfied with her husband, Gov. Phil Murphy's approach to promoting his wife's candidacy. This, coupled with Kim's decisive victories over Murphy in several county conventions this month, was a fatal blow to Kim's candidacy.
Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop said in a statement this week that he made a mistake in endorsing Murphy months ago.
“It's no secret that I'm disappointed in this campaign and the way it's run,” Fulop said. “It is clear that my early endorsement and support of Tammy Murphy as a senator was a mistake.”
Both Mr. Murphy and Mr. Kim began their Senate campaigns in the fall to replace Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, who along with his wife faces federal charges for obstruction of justice and bribery.
The first indictment was announced in September, and additional charges have since been filed, bringing the total to 18. Both men deny wrongdoing.
Menendez has not officially announced whether he will run for re-election, but has hinted that he will run as an independent, saying, “I am hopeful that I will be acquitted this summer and that I will be able to pursue my candidacy as an independent Democrat.'' “I am doing so,” he said. election. ”