Justin Murphy, a self-employed attorney from Tabernacle, is the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in New Jersey's Nov. 3 general election.

Murphy, a Navy veteran, will face Democrat Cory Booker, Joanne Kuniansky of the Socialist Workers Party and Veronica Fernandez of the End The Corruption party, according to BallotReady election data. Murphy won the Republican primary, as WHYY reported. Cherry Hill voters will see this statewide race on their ballots.

Candidate information

  • Party: Republican
  • Office sought: U.S. Senate, New Jersey
  • Residence: Tabernacle, Burlington County (Pine Barrens region)
  • Occupation: Attorney, self-employed
  • Education: J.D., Widener University School of Law (2000)
  • Military service: U.S. Navy, E-5 Second Class Petty Officer (1983–1987)
  • Campaign website: jerseyjustin4senate.org

Experience and public service

Murphy served as deputy mayor of the Tabernacle Township Committee from 2001 to 2003, according to his iVoterGuide profile. He ran for New Jersey's 3rd Congressional District in 2008 and 2010.

On the issues

The following positions are drawn from Murphy's campaign website and BallotReady responses. All statements reflect the candidate's own claims.

Taxes and budget: Murphy says he supports abolishing the IRS and the Internal Revenue Code and replacing them with a flat income tax rate of 10–12%. He says he would eliminate the capital gains tax, all estate and death taxes and the Alternative Minimum Tax. He also says the Department of Government Efficiency should become a permanent federal effort and that he supports a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Immigration and border security: Murphy says he supports Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which permits state and local law enforcement involvement in immigration enforcement. He says he would resurrect the "Remain in Mexico" policy, end catch-and-release, finish constructing the border wall, deploy the U.S. military to secure both borders and implement E-Verify for the American workforce. He also says he would suspend federal aid to sanctuary cities, countries and states.

Energy and environment: Murphy says he strongly supports expanding nuclear power in the United States and wants to expedite federal leasing and permitting for energy development. He says he would fight for energy independence and keep the New Jersey shore free of pollution and offshore wind turbines. He also says he wants to protect the Pinelands, where he lives.

Education: Murphy says he advocates abolishing the federal Department of Education and dividing its annual budget equally among local school boards for public education funding and school voucher programs. He says he supports school choice.

Healthcare: Murphy says he opposes government-run healthcare but supports universal health coverage through private-sector solutions. He says he would advocate for legislation ensuring every American owns a health savings account and allowing consumers to purchase health insurance from any company in the country. He also says he would combat waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare and Medicaid.