MOUNT ARLINGTON - Pub 199, an iconic spot in this small Morris County town, is known for steaks, seafood and numerous stuffed animal heads on the walls.

Once a year at least, it becomes a focal point of county Republican politics as it hosts Sen. Anthony M. Bucco's annual Lobsterfest.

The event dates back to the senator's late father, who also represented the 25th District in Trenton.

It's always been a popular event, but now more than ever. Bucco is Senate Republican leader, which officially makes him the top ranking Republican in the state.

Bucco said he expected about 450 people to attend. The turnout Wednesday evening  was so good that there were two seatings for dinner, although - in true political fashion - some preferred to remain at the bar..

Bucco has never been an ideologue, or a super-partisan. He's a conservative for sure, but like his father, he deals with issues on a practical basis.

Asked about Mikie Sherrill's pending ascension to governor, Bucco said he's optimistic.

"We're all rooting for her to succeed," he said. "If she succeeds, we all succeed."

One wonders if all Republicans in the state agree with that rather bipartisan observation.

Circulating in the crowd was Joe Hathaway, who will be the Republican candidate in the April 16 special election to fill Sherrill's CD-11 seat.

The district leans Democratic, but Hathaway is working hard. He had a recent fundraiser with former Gov. Chris Christie and he has two more scheduled over the next few days.

While Hathaway is the only Republican in the race, there are 11 Democrats vying for the party's nod in the Feb. 5 primary.