Brian Varela

Democrat Rebecca Bennett will challenge Rep. Tom Kean Jr. in November's general election. Kean has been absent from public view since March due to an undisclosed health issue, missing all recent congressional votes. The race is rated a toss-up in a key suburban district for House Republicans.

New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr. states he is 'more energized than ever' after three months of absence due to an undisclosed illness but has delayed providing specifics about his medical condition or return to Washington. He faces a competitive reelection race with four Democratic challengers and has received formal endorsement from Donald Trump, though his prolonged absence has fueled Democratic confidence.

Democrats in New Jersey's 7th District will select a nominee for the U.S. House race represented by Republican Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from Congress due to a medical issue. Four Democratic candidates are competing, with the district seen as critical for House control. Kean's absence has intensified interest in the race, and President Trump endorsed him despite his absence.

Democrats in New Jersey’s 7th District will select a U.S. House nominee to challenge Republican Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from Congress due to a medical issue. Four candidates are competing in the primary, with the race described as key to potential House control. The district includes suburban areas, farmland, and a Trump golf club.

Democrats in New Jersey’s 7th District will choose a U.S. House nominee to challenge Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from Congress due to an unspecified medical issue. Four candidates—Rebecca Bennett, Michael Roth, Tina Shah, and Brian Varela—are competing in a primary viewed as critical for Democratic efforts to gain House control.