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New Jersey is gearing up for primary elections tomorrow, with polls open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. The elections will determine candidates for several key positions, including the seat currently held by Democratic Senator Bob Menendez, who has chosen not to run in the state's Democratic primary due to ongoing corruption charges. However, Menendez has indicated he may consider running in the general election as an independent if acquitted.
Among the Democrats vying for Menendez's seat are labor leader Patricia Campos-Medina, activist Lawrence Hamm, and front-runner Rep. Andy Kim. On the Republican side, the Senate primary includes hotelier Curtis Bashaw, Navy veteran Albert Harshaw, former Tabernacle Deputy Mayor Justin Murphy, and Mendham Borough Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner, who has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump.
Another race to watch is the Democratic primary for the 8th Congressional District. Incumbent Rob Menendez, son of Senator Menendez, is facing a challenge from Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla. The two have nearly matched each other in fundraising, with Bhalla raising $1.625 million to Menendez's $1.642 million.
As of Friday morning, more than 265,000 voters had already submitted mail-in ballots or voted early in person. The results of the primary will set the stage for November's election.