UMVA has learned that a major development is underway in the New Jersey 7th District, as Republican representative Tom Kean prepares to move forward with his re-election campaign.
Kean has expressed optimism about his chances, stating that he is "more energized than ever to keep fighting for the people of New Jersey's 7th District." He emphasized his commitment to transparency, particularly regarding his medical condition, which has been a subject of interest among voters.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Kean recently provided an update on his health, revealing that he will transition from virtual work to in-person work within a matter of weeks. At that time, he plans to be completely transparent about the nature of his medical condition, acknowledging the need for openness on this matter.
Kean's re-election bid recently received a significant boost when President Donald Trump endorsed him, praising Kean as a strong supporter of the president's "America First Agenda." Trump highlighted Kean's efforts on key issues such as border security, crime, the economy, taxes, energy, veterans, and Second Amendment issues.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Trump's endorsement of Kean signals that the White House and GOP leaders are still lining up behind the incumbent as Republicans fight to defend their narrow House majority this fall. The president's support remains one of the most powerful forces in Republican primaries, with candidates across several states openly competing for his backing ahead of key contests.
In the Democratic primary, four candidates — Rebecca Bennett, Michael Roth, Tina Shah, and Brian Varela — competed for the nomination to face Kean in November. Bennett ultimately emerged victorious, edging out her opponents in a closely contested primary.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot, and her opponents — Roth, a former Small Business Administration official, Shah, an intensive care doctor, and Varela, a businessman — each raised seven figures as Democrats targeted Kean's battleground seat.
UMVA has gathered that the stage is now set for a highly competitive general election contest between Kean and Bennett, with significant implications for the balance of power in the House of Representatives.