An abortion litmus test, unless they can self fund

by: Jason Springer

Thu Dec 31, 2009 at 11:20:15 AM EST

In case Ocean County does not field a candidate and Runyan becomes the establishment-backed favorite, Murphy thinks being pro-choice will bring the former Eagles tackle down.

"If the scenario unfolds where Jon Runyan faces Justin Murphy for the nomination, I can guarantee you I will be the nominee," said Murphy.  "I'm not trying to be a trash talker on that. I can tell you why in one word: abortion.  If there is a choice between one pro-choice candidate and one pro-life candidate in this election, the base of the party will support me."

Burlington County GOP Chairman Bill Layton argued that the abortion issue won't be a deal breaker with Republican primary voters.