Kennedy Wins Democratic Primary for NJ Congressional Seat - Wife of Patrick Kennedy

Kennedy Wins Democratic Primary for NJ Congressional Seat - Wife of Patrick Kennedy

Amy Kennedy defeated Brigid Harrison to win the nomination in highly competitive Democratic primary Tuesday for the 2nd Congressional seat in New Jersey, the New Jersey Globe projects.

Kennedy is the wife of former Rhode Island Congressman Patrick Kennedy and he became a target of his wife’s opponent during the primary. 

According to the Globe, “The two well-connected candidates with political dynasties and some of the most prominent Democrats in the state — and the nation — at their backs fought through a bitter and expensive war for the chance retake a seat the party won in 2018 but lost after Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis) defected to the Republican party.

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Kennedy will face Van Drew, who was elected as a Democrat in 2018, voted against impeaching President Trump, then switched parties.

Harrison ran negative ads against Kennedy for accepting $11,400 in contributions from executives at Wealthpath, a “troubled private correctional healthcare services company that has been the subject of more than 70 wrongful death lawsuits.”

Patrick Kennedy sits on the Wealthpath’s board.

The Kennedy family’s connections and resources helped her fundraising. She raised $1.4 million by June 17, with much of that money coming from Kennedys and their political allies. Harrison had then raised $415,600.69, according to the Globe.