Former pharma exec challenging U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez in N.J.

Bob Hugin recently retired from Celgene, a New Jersey based biotech company that develops medicines, most notably for cancer treatment. He was a major financial donor to former Gov. Chris Christie’s failed presidential bid, turned staunch supporter for President Trump, but Hugin says he’s ready to go to Washington with his mind set on doing what’s right for the state.

“If Governor Murphy or Senator Booker have a good idea that makes sense for New Jersey I will stand up and support them. If President Trump or any other Republican has an idea or view that’s bad for New Jersey, I will forcefully stand up and disagree with them,” he said.

The Republican wasted little time taking shots at two-term incumbent Sen. Bob Menendez, and the federal corruption charges against him that were recently dropped.

“We will make the case loud and clear that New Jersey deserves better from our next senator. New Jersey deserves a senator as good as it’s people, not one working to stay one step ahead of the law,” Hugin said.

Hugin has two Republican opponents in the June 5th primary, but has already secured several major party endorsements including U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance and former Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno. New Jersey hasn’t elected a republican to the U.S. Senate since 1972.