Curtis Bashaw, a pro-choice gay Republican and hotel developer, has secured the Republican nomination for U.S. Senator from New Jersey. Bashaw’s victory in Tuesday’s primary election over Mendham Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, signals a significant shift within the state’s political landscape.
“Good luck trying to label me,” he said. “I am Curtis Bashaw. A lifelong Republican. I am gay. I have been with my husband for 20 years. I am a small-business person. I am for freedom and domestic tranquility in our homes. I am pro-choice. I am pro-parent. I support law enforcement. I support Israel. I support Ukraine but know that America needs to be strong at home to be able to help others, and that means securing our border.”
Trump endorsed Glassner at his rally in Wildwood in May.
In the upcoming November elections, Bashaw will compete against Democrat Andy Kim, a current U.S. House member.
Also in the race is the incumbent senator, Bob Menendez, who, pending the outcome of his ongoing federal bribery trial, plans to run as an independent. Menendez’s participation could potentially split the Democratic vote, enhancing Bashaw’s chances of winning.
Bashaw’s win introduces a dynamic challenge for the Democrats, who are aiming to maintain or expand their slim 51-49 Senate majority. The last time New Jersey elected a Republican to the U.S. Senate was in 1972.
Bashaw’s campaign focuses on advocating for change and leveraging his outsider status to achieve results.
