Bateman not worried about re-election chances

State Sen. Kip Bateman isn’t worried about what Democratic wins in Somerset County say about his chances of winning a fifth term in the State Senate.

Earlier this month, Democrats took control over the Somerset County government, winning a freeholder seat and control of the county’s sheriff’s office.

Bateman’s district mates, Democratic Assemblymen Roy Freiman and Andrew Zwicker won re-election by about three and five points, respectively. 

Bateman was re-elected by fewer than 600 votes in 2017, scoring a victory by less than one point.

The senator said he’s hoping President Donald Trump will be less of a factor in his 2021 race, adding that new district lines set to be drawn next year may give him a wider path to re-election.