Four Democratic candidates are competing in a closely watched New Jersey congressional primary race as the party looks to flip one of the nation’s most vulnerable Republican-held House seats in the 2026 midterm elections.
WEBDESK – NJNEWSLINE
Democrats Rebecca Bennett, Michael Roth, Tina Shah, and Brian Varela are seeking their party’s nomination in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District primary on June 2.
The winner will challenge Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr., who is seeking a third term in Congress.
The race has drawn growing national attention as Democrats target the district in their effort to regain control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
The 7th District covers Hunterdon County, Warren County, and parts of Morris County, Somerset County, Sussex County, and Union County.
Political analysts consider the district highly competitive despite Republicans holding a slight voter registration advantage. The Cook Political Report has labeled the race a toss-up amid growing voter frustration over inflation, affordability concerns, immigration policies, and national political divisions.
Kean has also faced criticism over his prolonged absence from Congress and the district. Reports indicate he has missed 99 House votes since March 5, citing unspecified medical issues.
Among the Democratic contenders, Bennett has emerged as a fundraising leader, reportedly raising more than $2.6 million from over 13,000 donors. A former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot and Air National Guard officer, Bennett has campaigned heavily on military service, healthcare affordability, and bipartisan appeal.
Roth, a former Biden administration official and business executive, has focused his campaign on economic reform, government accountability, and the restoration of public trust in democratic institutions.
Shah, a physician and healthcare policy adviser, has emphasized healthcare reform, clinician burnout, and the role of artificial intelligence in improving medical systems.
Varela, a businessman and former New Jersey Forward Party leader, has positioned himself as a progressive candidate supporting Medicare for All, universal childcare, immigration reform, and tighter restrictions on political lobbying and congressional stock trading.
Affordability remains a central issue across the race, with candidates proposing plans to lower healthcare, housing, childcare, and energy costs for New Jersey families.
The Democratic primary is expected to become one of the most expensive and closely watched congressional contests in New Jersey this year as both parties prepare for a fierce general election battle in November.
