Rebecca Bennett wins New Jersey Democratic primary, to face Trump ally Kean | US Midterm Elections 2026 News
Rebecca Bennett Secures Democratic Primary Victory in New Jersey, Faces Tom Kean Jr. in November
Rebecca Bennett has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, defeating three rivals with approximately 47.2% of the vote. This win sets the stage for a competitive general election against Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr., who enjoys the backing of former President Donald Trump.
Bennett, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, outpaced her closest opponent, Tina Shah, who garnered 20.2% of the vote according to Tuesday’s projected results. The 7th District is considered a crucial target for Democrats aiming to gain control of the House of Representatives, having switched party leaders twice in the last eight years. Analysts categorize the upcoming contest as a toss-up.
The election received increased attention due to Kean’s extended absence from Congress, where he has missed over 100 votes since early March due to an undisclosed illness. Despite this absence, Kean faced no opposition in the Republican primary and has previously stated his focus remains on recovery, with hopes of returning to in-person duties within the coming weeks. He released a statement just hours before polls closed, indicating that while he anticipated a return, it may take longer than initially expected.
During her election night gathering in Somerville, Bennett criticized Kean’s record and absence. “You are failing us, and you do not deserve to represent us in Washington,” she declared, labeling him a “coward.” Her campaign has focused on economic issues, particularly the rising costs of groceries and gasoline amid ongoing international conflicts, highlighting the impact on working families.
The 7th Congressional District, which encompasses suburban areas, agricultural communities, and Trump’s golf club in Bedminster, is a pivotal battleground in New Jersey politics. The seat has recently seen a series of party switches, with Democrat Tom Malinowski defeating Republican Leonard Lance in 2018, only to have Kean unseat Malinowski in 2022.
Bennett’s victory over fellow Democrats Tina Shah, Brian Varela, and Michael Roth now positions her for a contentious general election, critical for both parties as they vie for control of the House.
Tom Kean, 57, comes from a political family; his father, Thomas Kean, served two terms as governor and later chaired the 9/11 Commission. Despite the challenges posed by his health issues, he enters the race with Trump’s full endorsement, as the former president reiterated support conveyed through social media shortly before the primary.
Voter sentiment in the district has shown a willingness to unseat incumbents in recent elections, increasing the stakes as Bennett and Kean prepare for a close contest in November.
In other New Jersey Democratic primaries, Analilia Mejia and LaMonica McIver secured nominations in the 11th and 10th Congressional Districts, respectively.
