TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A Democratic political pundit and attorney is challenging New Jersey’s U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez for their party’s nomination.
Michael Starr Hopkins has filed paperwork to run in the June primary against the two-term incumbent, who’s facing a retrial on federal corruption charges after his first trial ended in a hung jury last fall.
Hopkins says it’s important politicians reflect their constituents’ values. The Jersey City resident outlined his reasons for seeking the seat in an op-ed piece discussing issues such as health care, education and taxes.
Hopkins has been a public defender in New York and a political commentator on Fox News and other major networks. He’s a contributing writer for the Huffington Post and The Hill and worked on Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign last year in Colorado.
Menendez has denied allegations of bribery, fraud and conspiracy.
Menendez just hurts the Dem brand. Laws broken or not, it’s clear he is too close to very wealthy (and out of state?) donors. It’s way past time for someone to replace him. NJ always seems to have corruption issues on both sides of the aisle. Replacing him would give NJ voters a sense that Dems are serious about governing.
Do you think Menendez would ever leave voluntarily?
Agreed … but this challenger doesn’t seem like the guy. For a state filled with so many educated people, New Jersey’s politics is incredibly fucked up.
Menendez just needs to retire. It’s as simple as that.
This is good news. Lets hope that Mr. Hopkins runs a good campaign and wins. Menendez. needs. to. go!