Richard Tabor is a New Jersey State Trooper and U.S. Army combat veteran who served in Iraq and the New Jersey National Guard. He has founded New Life Direction, a community initiative focused on empowering youth through mentorship and rebuilding trust between law enforcement and communities. Tabor is running for U.S. Senate positioning himself as a candidate with real-life experience in service to others, both military and law enforcement. As of early 2026, he has won endorsements from multiple county Republican organizations including Atlantic, Union, Hudson, and Ocean counties, establishing himself as a leading Republican candidate in the primary. Tabor's candidacy would make him the first Black Republican to face a Black Democrat in a New Jersey statewide race if he wins the primary.
Richard Tabor is a New Jersey State Trooper and U.S. Army combat veteran who served in Iraq and later in the New Jersey National Guard. He has dedicated his career to law enforcement and community service. In addition to his State Police work, Tabor founded New Life Direction, a youth-focused initiative providing mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement to help young people achieve their potential and restore trust between law enforcement and communities they serve. His background reflects a commitment to both public safety and community relations. In 2025, he sought a state assembly nomination in the 20th district but was forced off the ballot due to residency issues. Tabor is positioned as the Republican candidate with the strongest ground support among county party organizations as of March 2026.
Supports law enforcement while working to rebuild trust with communities
Founded New Life Direction to provide youth mentorship and leadership development, addressing law enforcement-community relations
Voting History: No voting record (not in elected office)
Positions himself as non-politician with real-world credentials
Emphasizes military and law enforcement background as contrast to career politicians
Voting History: No voting record
Argues that New Jersey doesn't need another career politician
Campaign messaging emphasizes his understanding of 'real life, real pain and real responsibility'
Voting History: No voting record
Richard Tabor has not held elected office and therefore has no voting record in legislative positions. His public record consists of law enforcement service and community youth work.
Tabor's campaign messaging emphasizes authenticity and real-world experience, positioned against career politics. His communication style focuses on service background and community work rather than partisan rhetoric.
Facing questions about legal matters and State Police internal investigation
Party leaders expressed concerns about wrongful death lawsuit and internal investigation impact on general election viability