Bennett vows to ‘sprint through the tape’ in final weeks of NJ-7 race

Democratic congressional candidate Rebecca Bennett says she has the momentum to unseat Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, even as Republican super PACs withdraw their remaining advertising investments from the race.

“We are going to sprint through the tape for the next twenty days to make sure we are flipping this seat,” Bennett said.

Bennett’s optimism comes as the Congressional Leadership Fund shifts millions of advertising dollars from Kean to other competitive House races, according to a New York Times report, although she noted that GOP-aligned groups have already invested heavily in the district.

“They have still spent $14 million in this race,” she said.

Bennett said she believes her campaign has built the organization and enthusiasm needed to win in November.

“I do believe we have the momentum and the strength on the ground,” Bennett said.

She described her approach to the final weeks as, “It’s all gas, no brakes”

Bennett, a former U.S. Navy helicopter and experimental test pilot, also said today that she would seek a seat on the House Armed Services Committee if elected, arguing that her military experience would be valuable as Congress confronts emerging national security challenges.

“When we’re talking about how we’re making sure the United States is safe and secure for the 21st century,” Bennett said.  “We have a lot of work to do when it comes to making sure we are prepared for 21st-century threats “

Bennett has previously expressed interest in serving on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Members of Congress may serve on both panels simultaneously.

She also emphasized the rarity of women with military backgrounds serving in Congress, noting that “There have only been thirteen women veterans who have served in Congress”

Bennett said her experience would also distinguish her within the Democratic caucus.

“I would be the only military aviator in the House Democrats’ caucus “

But with Election Day approaching, Bennett said the Republican withdrawal from the district’s advertising battle has not changed her campaign’s sense of urgency.

“The race is not done; we got twenty days,” she said.