Rebecca Bennett wins New Jersey Democratic primary, to face Trump ally Kean

Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy commander, has won the Democratic primary in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. She will challenge Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr. in the upcoming midterm elections. Bennett secured approximately 47.2 percent of the vote, defeating three other Democratic rivals. The race is considered a toss-up by analysts, as the district has switched party control twice in the past eight years. Kean, who has missed over 100 House votes due to an undisclosed illness, ran unopposed in the Republican primary with President Trump's endorsement. Bennett's campaign has focused on the cost of living and Kean's absence from Congress.

Donald Trump endorsed Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr. for New Jersey's seventh congressional district, despite Kean's absence from the House since early March due to a personal medical issue. Kean is running unopposed in the Republican primary. Meanwhile, the Democratic primary in the district features multiple candidates who have collectively raised significant funds. Republican colleagues are reportedly concerned about Kean's health and the potential impact on holding the seat in the general election, with some inquiring about New Jersey law should Kean be unable to serve after winning the primary. Kean's office has stated he is dealing with a medical issue and expects to return soon, while his social media continues to be active with staff representing him at events.

Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. is expected to win re-election on Tuesday despite being absent from Washington and his New Jersey district for months. President Donald Trump recently endorsed Kean, calling him a "Tremendous Advocate of our America First Agenda" and stating he is "working tirelessly." Kean is running unopposed and has not needed to campaign, but reports indicate he has missed over 100 votes and was last seen on March 5th. His staff previously stated he was dealing with a medical issue, and an aide mentioned he was in a location without cameras. Despite concerns raised by colleagues and media, Kean's office released a statement in April indicating he expected to return soon.