TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey's longtime state Senate president, Democrat Steve Sweeney, has lost reelection, falling to a Republican newcomer who spent less than $200 on the race and leaving his party reeling.
Edward Durr, a Raymour & Flanigan truck driver and political newcomer, defeated Sweeney in New Jersey's 3rd Legislative District, the Associated Press projected Thursday.
Sweeney's defeat was unexpected and threw his party's legislative leadership contest into limbo.
Sweeney had successfully weathered a 2017 reelection battle in which the New Jersey Education Association spent millions trying to defeat him.
New Jersey Senate President Steve Sweeney listens as Governor Phil Murphy, left, delivers a speech on the state budget on Tuesday, March 5, 2019, in Trenton.Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com
This year, Durr won after spending just $153.31 according to state figures.
The 3rd Legislative District covers parts of Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties.
