Governor Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 390 ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 to honor the life of former Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes.

County Executive Brian Hughes passed away on June 10, 2025 at the age of 69, leaving behind his beloved wife, Pamela, and their son, Sullivan. The son of former New Jersey Governor and Chief Justice Richard J. Hughes and Elizabeth Sullivan Hughes, Hughes graduated from Thomas Edison State College, which he later helped become Thomas Edison State University. In 1997, he began his career in elective office when he was elected to the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders, where he served two terms, including one as Freeholder President. In 2003, County Executive Hughes was elected to serve as Mercer County Executive, becoming the first Democrat to hold the post in more than two decades, where he served until his retirement on December 31, 2023.

“Brian Hughes devoted his life to serving the people of New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “As Mercer County Executive, he championed critical investments in infrastructure and social services. Hughes led with kindness, compassion, and integrity, and we are deeply grateful for his service and are keeping his family and loved ones in our prayers."