Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman has endorsed Representative Andy Kim in the closely watched Democratic primary for the New Jersey Senate seat, making him the first sitting senator to weigh in on the race to replace indicted Senator Bob Menendez. Fetterman’s endorsement provides Kim’s campaign with a notable boost, given the challenging dynamics of the primary.
Kim is facing tough competition from New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy, who has secured critical support from influential leaders in Democratic-rich counties. While Kim is a respected third-term House member and prolific fundraiser, the backing from Fetterman adds a prominent name to his list of supporters.
In an interview with POLITICO, Fetterman criticized New Jersey’s unique ballot-design system, calling it a regime that had protected Menendez. Despite the challenges, Fetterman expressed confidence that Democratic voters would want their voices fully reflected in Washington, supporting Representative Kim.
Fetterman, who was the first sitting senator to call for Menendez’s resignation following his indictment, highlighted Kim’s integrity, stating, “I feel very secure knowing that he has no gold bars underneath his mattress and won’t ever be accused of being a foreign agent for Egypt or Qatar.”
The race to replace Menendez involves both Kim and Murphy, both of whom have called for Menendez’s resignation amid allegations of accepting favors in exchange for cash, gold bars, and a luxury vehicle. Fetterman emphasized Murphy’s past switch from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party in 2014, citing his belief that Kim would be a reliable Democratic vote if elected.
Kim’s campaign received further endorsements from six House Democrats from Pennsylvania and support from various Democratic coalitions and municipal committees in New Jersey. Fetterman has already initiated fundraising efforts for Kim and intends to use his platform to raise awareness and support for the campaign.
While Murphy has garnered endorsements from seven Democratic county chairs in densely populated areas, the primary race is crucial, as New Jersey has not sent a Republican to the Senate in about 50 years. Menendez has not yet announced whether he will run for reelection in 2024, adding another layer of uncertainty to the political landscape.
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