New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District is a top Democratic pickup opportunity in 2026. Democrat Rebecca Bennett will face Republican incumbent Thomas Kean Jr. who flipped the seat in 2022 after redistricting made the district more favorable to Republicans. Kean has taken some heat for being missing from the campaign trail and DC in the last three months of the primary campaign. Bennett won over three opponents with 46% of the vote. The Cook Political Report now rates NJ-07 as a Toss-Up, citing a stronger Democratic field and longer-term demographic shifts. The district spans affluent Union County suburbs to more rural northwestern areas and has historically leaned Republican, though recent trends suggest growing Democratic competitiveness.



Kean’s lineage could continue to be a strength for him. His father served as governor, and his family’s political roots roots in New Jersey date back to the 18th century. However, Kean’s support of Trump’s tariffs and his lack of support for New Jersey communities trying to block the conversion of warehouses to ICE detention centers could tank his reelection bid.

COMPETITIVE NJ RACES

• Bennett served in the U.S. Navy earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University and a graduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School. Her career experience includes working as a healthcare executive.
• Kean has aligned with Trump-era messaging, labeling reform efforts as “political games,” while local officials and residents have raised concerns about enforcement practices and proposed detention facility expansions.
• Officials and residents have raised concerns about enforcement practices and proposed detention facility expansions. The Delaney Hall ICE detention center has been the site of a hunger strike and multiple protests.
• Climate change and flood mitigation have emerged as significant concerns in NJ-07, where some areas face recurring flood damage and infrastructure challenges. Recent federal policy changes and funding shifts have raised concerns among local officials about FEMA’s capacity and support.
• Healthcare and federal funding remain central issues, including debates over Medicaid, veterans’ services, and Social Security, following significant cuts and ongoing efforts to scale back funding.
• Energy costs have risen across New Jersey, with some residents experiencing notable increases in utility bills.