Joe Biden endorses Amy Kennedy for Congress

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden today endorsed Amy Kennedy for Congress in New Jersey’s 2nd district.

The former vice president has been making selective endorsements in key congressional races recently.   While he’ll be running on a ticket with all Democrats, the specific call out by Biden of a candidate in a competitive race could open the door to added fundraising opportunities.

“I am proud to endorse Amy Kennedy for Congress in New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District. South Jersey’s working families deserve a representative with a proven track record of uncompromised service to others,” Biden said. “As a mom of five, an educator and a mental health advocate, Amy understands the challenges facing her community and is ready to take them on. I know Amy will serve South Jerseyans well and ensure their voices are heard in Congress.”

Biden’s ties with the Kennedy family go way back.

Amy Kennedy’s father-in-law, Massachusetts U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, served in the Senate with Biden for 36 years.  Her husband, former Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy (D-Rhode Island), worked with Biden during his fourteen years in Congress.

“I’m proud to share his vision for building back better, for hope and change across the country and for unity and strength in times of chaos, “said Kennedy  “South Jersey has been left behind for too long and I’m fighting for the needs of the people of our community.”

Kennedy, a former public school teacher and a mental health advocate, is challenging freshman Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis) for the South Jersey House seat.

Van Drew was elected as a Democrat in 2018 and switched parties in late 2019 after refusing to support the impeachment of President Donald Trump.

Trump, who carried NJ-2 by five points in 2016, led the charge for Van Drew Wildwood rally in January.  Van Drew was given a speaking role at the Republican National Convention.

“I’m fighting to provide opportunity for generations to come, for an economy that serves all, for access to health care, mental health care, equality and justice,” Kennedy said. “I’m committed to leading with integrity and compassion and I will never pledge my undying support to anyone other than the people I’m elected to serve.”