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.