Tammy Murphy, the wife of Gov. Phil Murphy (D-N.J.), ended her primary campaign for Senate on Sunday.

Tammy Murphy Suspends Senate Campaign

“After many busy, invigorating and yes, challenging months, I am suspending my Senate campaign today,” Murphy announced in a video. “I’ve been genuine and factual throughout. But it is clear to me that continuing in this race will involve waging a very divisive and negative campaign, which I am not willing to do.”

Challenges and Endorsements

Murphy struggled to overcome concerns about her qualifications and ties to the governor’s office, despite a suite of high-power endorsements from most of the state’s congressional delegation and backing from influential county party leaders.

Andy Kim Emerges as Major Candidate

Kim has gained momentum over the last few months, upsetting Murphy in small county ballots. The race was seen as a toss-up by state politicos as recently as last week, citing Kim’s voter enthusiasm and Murphy’s endorsement advantage.

Endorsement Ballot Lines

Murphy’s exit now brings her county endorsement lines into question. Each county party that has endorsed Murphy will decide whether to give its coveted endorsement ballot line to Kim.

Murphy's Focus Shifts

Murphy did not name or endorse Kim in her announcement, but she did encourage party unity.

Support for Biden Campaign

She said her focus will now shift to assisting the Biden campaign.

Menendez's Potential Candidacy

Menendez is not participating in the primary as he contends with criminal corruption charges, but he floated last week that he could run in the general election as an independent candidate.