Former Mercer Co. Executive Brian Hughes Dies At 68

MERCER COUNTY, NJ – Former Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes died Tuesday morning. He was 68.

Hughes served as County Executive from 2004 to 2024.

Hailing from a prominent political family, Hughes’ father was governor Richard J. Hughes who served NJ fr4om 1962 to 1970.

In 2003, Hughes created history by ending 24 years of Republican control over the Mercer County Executive’s Office, by defeating Cathy DiCostanzo.

Tributes from Hughes poured in from leaders in Mercer.

East Windsor Mayor Janice Mironov remembered Hughes as someone who took the County forward during his long career.

“Brian Hughes had a lengthy public career distinguished by many important achievements, among them our excellent county park system, expanding open space and moving forward on some key redevelopment projects,” Mironov said.

“He helped lead Mercer County forward in many significant directions, including by sharing stories of his own personal challenges. We send our sympathies and warm wishes to his wife Pam and son Sullivan, and the entire Hughes family at this difficult time”

Current County executive Dan Benson offered his condolences to his family, calling him a “devoted public servant, and a truly decent man.”

“His 20 years as County Executive showed his passion for our County, from our parks, to our airport, to our services for our most vulnerable populations. During my years as a County Commissioner, and later as a State Assemblyman, I had the opportunity to work with Brian for the betterment of Mercer County,” Benson said.

“Like his father, Governor Richard Hughes, Brian believed deeply in public service and helping those in need. My thoughts are with Brian’s wife Pam, his son Sullivan, and his whole family during this difficult time.”

During his 20 years leading Mercer County, Hughes protected over 5,000 acres of open space, launched the Terminal Replacement Project at Trenton-Mercer Airport, introduced programs to support prisoner reentry, and oversaw construction of the new Mercer County Courthouse.

Here’s what leaders said about Hughes on his passing:

• Mercer County Sheriff Jack Kemler: I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Brian Hughes. Brian was not just a public servant; he was a leader who truly exemplified a deep commitment to the people of Mercer County. In his position as County Executive, Brian carried out his responsibilities with great distinction for over two decades, positively impacting Mercer County and our region for decades to come. His support of the Mercer County Sheriff's Office and our role in serving and protecting the public was immeasurable. We are diminished by his untimely passing.
• Assembly members Verlina Reynolds Jackson and Anthony S. Verrelli: We are deeply saddened by the passing of Brian M. Hughes, a compassionate leader and steadfast champion for the people of Mercer County. Throughout his time in public service, Brian led with quiet strength, a steady hand, and a genuine belief in the power of government to make life better for the people it serves. Whether it was improving essential services or standing up for the most vulnerable, Brian approached every challenge with humility and heart. His legacy can be seen in every corner of Mercer County. In the programs he built, the institutions he strengthened, and the lives he touched. We are grateful for his years of service and, above all, his friendship. Our thoughts are with Pam, Sullivan, and the entire Hughes family as we share in mourning the loss of a truly good man who gave so much to all of us.”
• Speaker Craig J. Coughlin: Saddened to see the passing of Brian Hughes, a kind and steady leader whose genuine care for the people of Mercer County spanned two decades. Brian left an indelible mark on the community he loved and served so well. Tish and I send our deepest condolences
• Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman: I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Brian Hughes. Brian was a lifelong public servant who tirelessly served Mercer County as its executive with dignity and exceptional service for 20 years. Our families have known each other since our fathers worked together decades ago. He always fought for the less fortunate and was a forward looking leader in Mercer County. I was honored to work with Brian to help make Mercer County the incredible place it is today. His hard work in service of his constituents and the indelible mark he left on our community will be his lasting legacy. My heart goes out to his wife Pam, son Sullivan, and the entire Hughes family.

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