Democrat Murphy beats Christie's deputy
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - New Jersey Democrat Phil Murphy has defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno in the race to succeed term-limited Gov. Chris Christie.
Murphy emerged victorious Tuesday after leading Guadagno in the polls and fundraising in a race that revolved in part around the Republican governor's unpopularity.
Murphy relentlessly linked Guadagno to Christie, whose approval ratings are abysmal.
Murphy has promised to raise income taxes on millionaires, increase funding for public schools and pensions and legalize marijuana. His victory marks the first statewide Democratic win during President Donald Trump's administration after Democrats failed to win special congressional races earlier this year.
Murphy made a fortune at Goldman Sachs before serving as President Barack Obama's ambassador to Germany but has never held office before.