In a nationally watched congressional race, Republican incumbent Congressman Tom Kean Jr. has secured his seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, fending off a challenge from Democrat Sue Altman, a City of Lambertville resident.
The New Jersey Globe projected that Kean would win the race and said Kean had declared victory.
The battle for New Jersey’s Seventh Congressional District, a moderate district, was expected to be a key factor in determining control of the House.
Polling by Monmouth University in October had shown the candidates neck-and-neck in the weeks leading up to election day.
In the most recent fundraising quarter, Altman had a slight edge over Kean.
According to Federal Election Commission reports, Altman brought in $5.175 million to Kean’s $5.3 million by September 30. However, Kean held a substantial financial advantage with $2.6 million on hand compared to Altman’s $1.42 million.
The race saw a flurry of television advertising in the district.
The race featured a notable moment during a virtual debate when Altman pressed Kean on his stance regarding former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Kean’s prolonged silence in response lasted nearly 10 seconds and quickly spread on social media.
Kean, who has represented the district since 2023 after serving in the New Jersey Senate, criticized Altman as being out of touch with the constituents’ values.
Altman highlighted her town halls with the community and criticized Kean for not holding more public events. She also has tied him to Trump.
In the district, Andrew Black was the Green Party candidate and Lana Leguia was the Libertarian Party candidate.
The Seventh Congressional District covers all of Hunterdon and Warren Counties; and portions of Morris, Somerset, Sussex, and Union Counties.
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