Context:

Rebecca Bennett, a Democrat running for Congress in New Jersey's 7th District, has deleted social media posts that praised progressive figures, in an effort to position herself as a moderate in a district that leans Republican. Bennett, a Navy veteran and current Air Force National Guard member, has removed posts supporting figures like Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris, reflecting a strategic pivot to appeal to a broader electorate. Criticism from the National Republican Congressional Committee claims Bennett is attempting to obscure her progressive past, calling her a 'radical scam artist.' However, Bennett's campaign dismisses these attacks, asserting her commitment to addressing local issues and challenging incumbent GOP Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. The race is anticipated to be highly competitive in the upcoming midterms, with Republicans holding a narrow majority in the House of Representatives.

Dive Deeper:

• Rebecca Bennett, a candidate for the Democratic primary in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, has been removing social media posts that expressed support for progressive leaders, as she attempts to appeal to a more moderate voter base in a district rated 'Lean Republican.'

• Bennett, who has served in the Navy and is part of the Air Force National Guard, has deleted posts in which she praised figures like Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris, as well as posts related to the impeachment of former President Trump.

• The National Republican Congressional Committee has criticized Bennett, accusing her of trying to hide her progressive views and labeling her a 'scam artist' who cannot be trusted by New Jersey voters.

• In response, Bennett's campaign has dismissed the NRCC's criticism, arguing that the attacks are politically motivated and emphasize her potential to unseat the current Republican Congressman, Thomas Kean Jr.

• The race in New Jersey's 7th District is expected to be closely contested in the midterm elections, as the Republicans currently hold a slim majority in the House of Representatives.

• Bennett's strategy of positioning herself as a moderate is seen as a tactical move to win over voters in a district that narrowly voted for Trump and where her Democratic predecessor faced similar scrutiny over social media posts.

• The outcome of this race is significant, given the current balance of power in the House, with Republicans holding 220 seats compared to the Democrats' 215.