(AP) - Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez could be facing his first primary challenger if he seeks re-election next year.

Jersey City attorney and cable TV contributor Michael Starr Hopkins said in an op-ed Monday that he is considering challenging the incumbent.

The 31-year-old says Menendez's federal corruption trial that ended in a hung jury led him to consider a primary challenge. He says the state deserves someone who hasn't been "tainted by the culture of corruption."

Menendez denied charges that he helped his friend, Florida eye doctor Salomon with billing claims in exchange for lavish vacations. Prosecutors have not indicated if they'll retry the case. Menendez has sought to have the charges dismissed.

His political adviser has said he would decide soon if he's running in 2018.

The adviser declined to comment.