Watson Coleman Thanks Hughes, Backs Benson For Mercer Co. Executive

MERCER COUNTY, NJ – Following Brian M. Hughes’ announcement that he will be dropping out of the race for Mercer County Executive, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman thanked him for his service and backed Dan Benson in his bid for County Executive.

On Wednesday evening, Hughes announced his retirement and said he will not seek another term. More: Mercer Co. Executive Brian Hughes Announces Retirement, Backs Benson

In a statement released immediately after Hughes’ announcement, Watson Coleman thanked Hughes for years of public service.

“I would like to take a moment to thank my friend, Brian Hughes, for his tremendous service to our County and our Democratic Party. It wasn’t that long ago that Mercer County was Republican dominated and Brian was among the first to step up and successfully take on the challenge to slowly advance our Democratic values reflective of Mercer County's residents,” Watson Coleman said.

"His work for our Party is only matched by the remarkable job he did in leading our county government to provide outstanding services for every resident, even as he focused on making Mercer County affordable.”

She also applauded Hughes’ “selfless” decision to back out of a primary race and threw her support behind Benson.

“Democracy is neither neat nor tidy, but it allows for effective participation in electing our leaders. I applaud the selfless decision of Brian's to not put our county through the burden of a primary,” Watson Coleman said.

“Today it is time for each of us to stand with Dan Benson in his campaign to be our next County Executive. It’s time for us all to unite to make sure we don’t allow Mercer County to turn Red again.”

Hughes' announcement came days after he lost the Mercer County Democratic line to Benson.

On Thursday morning, Benson thanked Hughes for his support and 20 years of public service.

“I appreciate his outreach to me and his offer of support and assistance. With the path ahead clear, it’s time for our party to come together,” Benson said in a statement.

“I’m excited to work with all of Mercer County to build the next chapter in county government.”

He also thanked Watson Coleman for her endorsement.

“I appreciate and echo her call for unity, and am confident that together Democrats will be successful again this November,” Benson said.

During the Mercer County Democratic Convention Benson won 77 percent of the total votes cast. Earlier this week, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo also endorsed Benson for County Executive. More: Benson Wins Mercer Co. Democratic Line Over 5-Time Incumbent

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