Longtime public servant and advocate for Mercer County residents, the former Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes passed away Tuesday. He was 68.
Hughes, the son of former New Jersey Governor Richard Hughes served two terms on the Mercer County Board of Commissioners beginning in 1997. In 2003 he was elected Mercer County Executive, a post he held until his retirement in 2024.
During Hughes’s tenure, he spearheaded the Terminal Replacement Project at Trenton-Mercer Airport, supported reforms to make Mercer County more responsive and accountable to its residents, and oversaw the construction of the new Mercer County Courthouse.
Statements on the passing of Hughes poured in reflecting on his legacy.
GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY
“Tammy and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and former Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes.
Much like his father, former Governor Richard Hughes, Brian devoted his entire life to serving the people of New Jersey. During his time as Mercer County Executive, he pioneered a model of leadership that directly improved the lives of our state’s families and workers. From preserving thousands of acres of open space to investing in infrastructure and social services, he was a steadfast champion for all who have the privilege of calling the Garden State home.
Brian embodied the highest ideals of public service. And his legacy of kindness, compassion, and integrity will inspire generations to come.
We are sending our prayers and heartfelt condolences to Brian’s wife Pam, their son Sullivan, and every member of the Hughes family.”
MERCER COUNTY EXECUTIVE DAN BENSON
“Brian was a devoted public servant, and a truly decent man,” “His twenty 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. 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.”
TRENTON MAYOR REED GUSCIORA
“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of former Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes this morning.
I have had the privilege of knowing Brian in both public and private life since 1988. Over the decades, I came to know him not only as a steadfast leader but as an incredible friend and unwavering supporter of the City of Trenton.
Brian brought deep compassion to his work—whether it was improving our parks and public spaces, championing the arts and our shared cultural heritage, or standing up for those who had the least and needed the most. He was a true advocate for the underserved, never forgetting the people and communities too often overlooked. He led with heart, humility, and a tireless commitment to the betterment of Mercer County. His legacy will long be felt across the region, especially in Trenton, where his advocacy and love for our city never wavered.
Brian Hughes was universally respected and beloved, and his loss leaves a tremendous void. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hughes family during this difficult time.”
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.”
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP MAYOR JEFF MARTIN
“Well-known in Mercer County politics, County Executive Hughes was re-elected multiple times, shaping our Mercer and Hamilton community through his commitment to service. County Executive Hughes was committed to improving Hamilton and as one of his last initiatives, provided the Township money to help fund improvements to the Miracle League of Mercer County and our Hamilton Senior Center.
Brian will be deeply missed and our prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones.”
MERCER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
“The Mercer County Board of County Commissioners is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former County Executive Brian M. Hughes. Brian dedicated his life to public service, serving two terms on the Board of Chosen Freeholders (now the Board of County Commissioners) before leading Mercer County as County Executive from 2004 to 2024. He led with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the residents of our county. Over two decades, his leadership brought transformative progress in infrastructure, open space preservation, and effective, transparent government.
“Brian was more than a public servant—he was a colleague, a friend, and a mentor to many on this board. We are profoundly grateful for his service to the people of Mercer County and for the strong partnerships he fostered across the region and state. His legacy will continue to benefit our community for generations. Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with his family and with all who knew, loved, and admired him.”
“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.”
