Rebecca Bennett Wins NJ 7th District Democratic Primary

Former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett has won the Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, setting up a November general election contest against incumbent Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from Congress for nearly three months due to an unspecified medical issue. The race is expected to be one of the most competitive in the nation, with control of the narrowly divided House potentially hanging in the balance.

Kean, who was unopposed in the Republican primary, has not voted or been seen publicly since March 5. In a statement issued Tuesday, the congressman said he is focused on his recovery and will transition from virtual work to in-person work in Washington within a matter of weeks. He pledged to be completely transparent about the nature of his medical condition at that time. His office has previously described the situation only as a “personal medical issue.”

The prolonged absence has led to concern within Republican ranks about the party’s ability to hold the seat. Kean has missed over 100 votes in the House. House Speaker Mike Johnson said leadership has spoken to Kean and expects him back soon, adding that he expects the...