Trucker who spent $153 on campaign beats NJ's longest-serving politician

WASHINGTON (TND) — A conservative truck driver who reportedly spent only $153 on his campaign has officially unseated the longest-standing state legislator in New Jersey history.

In a stunning upset Edward Durr, R-N.J., beat longtime Senate President Steve Sweeney, D-N.J., by over 4,500 votes, according to the Associated Press's election results. Durr's victory was announced officially early Thursday afternoon. He will now represent South Jersey’s 3rd legislative district.

"It is stunning and shocking and I cannot figure it out,” New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg told the AP.

Sweeney’s defeat has the potential to change the landscape of New Jersey state politics. Democrats’ majority in the New Jersey Senate could be cut in half with victories from Durr and the three other GOP hopefuls trying to flip seats previously held by Democrats. Additionally, Sweeney's loss has made way for a new Senate President in New Jersey's legislature.

Durr, a life-long New Jersey resident and truck driver for the furniture store Raymour & Flanigan, only spent $153 on his bid for state Senate according to campaign finance records, Fox News reported. He has never held elected office, but once ran unsuccessfully for a seat in the New Jersey General Assembly in 2019.

Durr himself wasn't even sure he would be able to pull out a win, telling Politico that he was “walking on eggshells” before the results became official.

In his position as Senate president, Sweeney is one of the most powerful officials in New Jersey state government. He was reportedly being considered in discussions about who might run for governor in 2025, said Politico.

Republican challenger Jack Ciattarelli and incumbent Democrat Phil Murphy were deadlocked in the New Jersey gubernatorial election Wednesday as well, but it was also announced officially Thursday that Murphy won.

Durr is considered part of a Republican surge that occurred Tuesday across the country. Virginia shocked the nation with a GOP sweep of all three major statewide positions on the ballot. Republicans also took back a majority in the Virginia General Assembly.

The GOP also did well locally, winning two competitive races for district attorney in Long Island and picking up seats in other local races across the country.