Kean, Bennett Clash in Key House Debate

Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. and Democratic challenger Rebecca Bennett faced off in their only debate in New Jersey’s closely contested 7th Congressional District, a race that could affect control of the House. Bennett blamed rising gas and other costs on President Donald Trump’s Iran war and tariffs, called for ending the conflict, and said Congress should curb the president’s tariff authority. Kean defended the military action as necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and supported the tariffs, while attributing high fuel costs to policies that weakened U.S. energy production and calling for expanded domestic energy supplies. The candidates also clashed over affordability, including housing and household expenses. The debate came amid scrutiny of Kean’s extended absence from the House this year, which he said was for treatment for depression; the race has drawn attention as polling showed a tight contest.