TRENTON, NJ – With a possible resignation on the horizon for U.S. Senator Robert Menendez, it will be Governor Phil Murphy who gets to appoint a replacement. Insiders in Trenton today are saying that person could be his wife Tammy. Yes, the first lady might get appointed by her husband to a U.S. Senate seat.
Only in New Jersey, people. Even if she’s not appointed, she’s considering a run for office.
Tammy Murphy, New Jersey’s active first lady, is contemplating a run for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. Bob Menendez, who faces recent indictment, according to sources within the Democratic party.
While Tammy Murphy has often been cited as a potential candidate for public office, this marks the first instance where she seems to be genuinely considering such a move. Unlike previous first ladies of New Jersey, Murphy has taken a more active role in policy and fundraising, even maintaining an office in Trenton.
The situation is made more complex by the fact that if Menendez chooses to step down, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, Tammy Murphy’s husband, would have the authority to appoint his replacement until the term expires in January 2025. This adds a layer of irony to Menendez’s predicament, as he himself had previously helped his son, Rob Menendez, secure a position in the House of Representatives.
Sen. Bob Menendez has not announced any plans to resign despite the indictment, which alleges that he provided official favors in exchange for significant financial gains, including cash and gold bars. It remains unclear if he plans to run for reelection.
The consideration by Tammy Murphy to run for the Senate seat brings a new dynamic to the unfolding Menendez saga, raising questions about the political future of the seat and who might ultimately fill it.