Bhalla Takes on Menendez in NJ Congressional Primary

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla has announced his candidacy for Congress in New Jersey's 8th District, challenging incumbent U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez Jr. in the Democratic Primary. Bhalla, a recognizable local figure with fundraising capabilities, aims to displace the Menendez dynasty and prove the flimsiness of the incumbent and the party line. The race is made more interesting by the dynamics of the presidential election year, the likely establishment candidacy of First Lady Tammy Murphy running with Menendez, and the possibility of grassroots resistance from U.S. Rep. Andy Kim. However, it is uncertain whether Bhalla's challenge will have a significant impact, as the Menendez camp may view it as an opportunity and rely on the Hudson County Democratic Organization's support.