Feeling out a run for the CD5 seat now occupied by U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, Warren County Freeholder Jason Sarnoski this afternoon needled the Democratic incumbent in the aftermath of the hung jury outcome in the trial of U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ).

“Senator Bob Menendez has embarrassed New Jersey and [the] mistrial – at the extraordinary expense of all involved – only reinforces the importance of honoring the public’s trust,” Sarnoski said. “A mistrial should cause a person to think about their actions, not celebrate.

“Senator Menendez now has the rare distinction of being one of just twelve US Senators ever indicted,” the freeholder added. “Considering the seriousness of the charges brought against him, the Senate Ethics Committee should investigate. Congressman Josh Gottheimer owes it to his constituents to explain if he, like Governor-elect Phil Murphy, stands with Senator Menendez for re-election.”