New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy has suspended her U.S. Senate campaign to replace Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez as he faces federal corruption charges. Murphy announced her decision in a video posted to her social media on Sunday. Her decision to drop out likely clears the way for U.S. Rep. Andy Kim in the Democratic primary on June 4. Menendez announced he wouldn't run in that primary but didn't rule out seeking reelection as an independent. Murphy, a first-time candidate, was running with the backing of influential Democratic figures. Kim, a three-term congressman, has centered his campaign in part on upending the state’s unique ballot design, widely viewed as favoring candidates preferred by county party insiders.
