New Jersey voters head to the polls Tuesday for a slate of U.S. House primary elections that will set the stage for the fall general election. The most notable contests include an open seat in the 12th Congressional District and a competitive race in the 7th District, where the incumbent faces increased scrutiny.
In the 12th District, which covers parts of Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties, the seat is open due to the retirement of longtime Democratic Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. Several candidates are vying for the Democratic nomination, while the Republican primary is also attracting attention. The outcome will determine who will succeed a veteran lawmaker in a safely Democratic district.
Meanwhile, the 7th District race is shaping up to be the most competitive in the Garden State. Rep. Thomas Kean Jr., a Republican, has faced criticism for missing votes in Congress, including a recent report highlighting his absences. Despite that, he is expected to win his primary easily. However, the general election is likely to be a tough fight, as Democrats see this district as a pickup opportunity. The Democratic primary features several candidates hoping to challenge Kean in November.
Polls across the state close at 8 p.m. EDT, and Decision Desk HQ will provide live results as they come in. This primary is part of a broader election night that includes contests in several other states, including South Dakota, New Mexico, Iowa, and Montana.
In related political news, former President Donald Trump endorsed Kean Jr. just a day before the primary, even though Kean faces no serious Republican challenger. That endorsement underscores the national attention on this race, as control of the House hangs in the balance.
For context, New Jersey's other congressional primaries are largely uncontested, but the open seat in the 12th and the competitive 7th District will drive voter turnout. The state's political landscape remains a key battleground, with both parties eyeing seats that could flip in the general election.
Stay tuned for updates as results are tabulated. For broader coverage of tonight's primaries, including races in South Dakota, New Mexico, and Iowa, check out live results from six states.
