Brian M. Hughes, who led Mercer County for two decades as County Executive and was part of one of New Jersey’s most prominent political families, died Sunday at age 68.
Hughes, a Democrat and the son of former New Jersey Governor and Chief Justice Richard J. Hughes, served as County Executive from 2004 to 2023. He previously served two terms on the Mercer County Board of Chosen Freeholders, now known as the Board of County Commissioners.
Elected as the first Democrat to hold the county executive position in 24 years, Hughes left a lasting mark on the region through investments in parks, public infrastructure, criminal justice reform, and government modernization.
“Brian was a devoted public servant, and a truly decent man,” said current Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, who succeeded Hughes in January. “Like his father, Governor Richard Hughes, Brian believed deeply in public service and helping those in need.”
Hughes’ record included preserving more than 5,000 acres of open space, launching the Terminal Replacement Project at Trenton-Mercer Airport, supporting prisoner reentry initiatives, and overseeing construction of a new county courthouse.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Brian M. Hughes, a compassionate leader and steadfast champion for the people of Mercer County,” said Assembly members Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Anthony Verrelli in a joint statement. “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.”
Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman also reflected on Hughes’ lifelong public service and their personal connection.
“I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Brian Hughes,” she said. “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.”
Speaker of the Assembly Craig Coughlin described Hughes as “a kind and steady leader whose genuine care for the people of Mercer County spanned two decades.”
In a joint statement, Senator Linda Greenstein, Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo, and Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy called Hughes “a kind and generous soul” whose leadership “transformed county government—modernizing services, expanding access to open space, and strengthening infrastructure that improved everyday life for thousands of residents.”
Hughes’ leadership style was often described as steady and inclusive. “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,” Reynolds-Jackson and Verrelli said.
Hughes is survived by his wife, Pam, and son, Sullivan. Memorial arrangements were not immediately announced.
