In New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, Democrats are preparing to select their candidate to challenge Republican incumbent Tom Kean Jr., who has been absent from Congress for several months due to an unspecified medical issue. The primary features four contenders: Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy pilot; Michael Roth, a former Small Business Administration official; Tina Shah, an ICU doctor; and businessman Brian Varela. Each candidate has raised significant funds and is navigating the balance between appealing to the party's base and independent voters. The campaign has intensified, particularly as Democrats highlight rising grocery and gasoline prices, attributing these issues to Republican policies, including Kean's support for tax cuts. The district's history of ousting incumbents during midterms adds to the stakes of this election, as Democrats view it as crucial for regaining control of the House. Additionally, a Republican Senate primary is underway, with candidates competing to challenge Democratic Senator Cory Booker in the upcoming election.