NJ-02: Hottest N.J. primary features a Kennedy vs. a pundit for right to face Van Drew
South Jerseys 2nd Congressional District was already expected to feature one of the nations hottest congressional races.
Thats because angry Democrats promised an all-out fight against rookie Rep. Jeff Van Drew, who switched to the Republican Party after refusing to back Donald Trumps impeachment and then pledged his undying support for the president.
Political pundit Brigid Callahan Harrison, a Montclair State University political science professor, quickly lined up the backing of six county chairs and state Senate President Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester, and entered the race.
Then Amy Kennedy, wife of former Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., and the most recent candidate from the iconic political family, also jumped in the July 7 Democratic primary.
So theres indeed a street fight in this district a few months early.
I dont think this primary would get as much attention if there wasnt someone named Kennedy in it, said Nathan Gonzales, editor and publisher of Inside Elections, which rated Van Drew as a slight favorite for re-election.
https://www.nj.com/politics/2020/06/hottest-nj-primary-features-a-kennedy-vs-a-pundit-for-right-to-face-party-switching-trump-fan.html