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IVF Becomes a Central Issue in New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District

New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District race is heating up as Democrat Sue Altman challenges incumbent Republican Tom Kean Jr. over his stance on in-vitro fertilization (IVF) access. Altman’s attacks are part of a broader Democratic strategy to emphasize reproductive rights, a key issue in the 2024 elections.

Tom Kean Jr., then a GOP candidate for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, speaks at his election night party held in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, on Nov. 8, 2022. | Stefan Jeremiah/AP

In New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, Democrat Sue Altman is targeting incumbent Republican Tom Kean Jr. on his position regarding in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Altman accuses Kean of not standing up to extremists in his party who are targeting reproductive rights, despite Kean’s self-described pro-choice stance. This issue has taken center stage following an Alabama court ruling that placed IVF at the forefront of national debate.

Tom Kean Jr.’s Response to IVF Criticism

In response to Altman’s attacks, Kean introduced the “IVF for Families Act,” which aims to provide income tax credits to help families afford IVF treatments. Kean has also highlighted his long-standing support for reproductive rights, including his co-sponsorship of a GOP-led resolution supporting access to IVF treatments. However, Altman continues to criticize Kean for not backing a Democratic bill that would explicitly protect IVF at the federal level.

The Political Landscape of the 7th District

The 7th Congressional District is one of the most competitive House races in the country, with control of the narrowly divided House potentially hinging on its outcome. The district, which spans from rural areas to New York City suburbs, has trended towards Democrats in recent years, despite having more registered Republicans. Kean, a moderate with a long history in New Jersey politics, faces a tough battle as Altman seeks to capitalize on the growing emphasis on reproductive rights in the 2024 election.

Reproductive Rights as a Key Issue in 2024

Reproductive rights, including IVF and abortion access, have become central issues in the 2024 election, particularly in battleground districts like New Jersey’s 7th. Altman’s focus on these issues reflects a broader Democratic strategy that has proven successful in recent elections. The outcome of this race could serve as a test case for how effective this messaging is in the current political climate.

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