Gov. Murphy doubles down on support of Rob Menendez, US Rep. Payne, on Election Day – Hudson County View

Gov. Phil Murphy (D) is doubling down on his support of Rob Menendez and U.S. Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-10) on Election Day, stating they are the best choices to represent their respective districts in Congress.

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

“.@DonaldPayneJr is a champion for working families who fights to bring quality jobs to NJ, make healthcare more affordable and invest in public safety. Vote Payne for Congress in #NJ10 today!,” Murphy tweeted at 9:49 a.m. this morning.

“In the halls of Congress, @RobMenendez4NJ will be a strong voice for strengthening families, expanding child care, and supporting organized labor. This #ElectionDay, I encourage the people of the 8th Congressional District to get out and vote for Rob,” he then wrote at 10:01 a.m.

Payne, who is seeking a sixth term, is heavily favored today after receiving endorsements from labor groups and politicians in New Jersey and beyond, as well as having the best fundraising cycle of his political career.

Nonetheless, he must overcome challenges from Imani Oakley and Akil Khalfani to once again become the Democratic nominee.

As for Menendez, he is the clear frontrunner in the 8th District, raising over $1 million and having the institutional support of the Democratic parties from Hudson, Essex, and Union Counties.

He still has to defeat David Ocampo Grajales and Ane Roseborough-Eberhard today in order to get once step closer to being a federal representative, potentially joining his father, U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ).

Murphy had previously endorsed both candidates early on in this election cycle.

The polls are open until 8 p.m. throughout New Jersey and anyone with a polling location issues should contact the Hudson County Board of Elections at 201-369-3435.