A New Dawn for Republicans?
For the first time in over half a century, Republicans are cautiously optimistic about their chances of flipping a Senate seat in the traditionally Democratic stronghold of New Jersey. Real estate developer Curtis Bashaw and former Mendham Borough mayor Christine Serrano Glassner are the frontrunners to represent the GOP in the upcoming November elections.
The Bashaw Factor
Bashaw, a political newcomer, believes that the time is ripe for a Republican resurgence. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity,” he says. With a substantial fundraising advantage and county line advantage in two-thirds of the state’s counties, Bashaw sees potential everywhere he goes. “New Jersey is made up of thousands and thousands of small businesspeople,” he says. “Our name ID is going to go up really fast.”
A Three-Way Race and the Trump Factor
The potential for a three-way race in New Jersey is adding to Bashaw’s optimism. Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez is mulling an independent bid, potentially diluting the Democratic vote. Former President Donald Trump, the GOP’s presumptive presidential nominee, is also expected to campaign in New Jersey, and Bashaw is banking on his endorsement.
Key Issues in the Race
Echoing Republican national talking points, Bashaw highlights crime and illegal immigration as key concerns for New Jerseyans. He also criticizes what he sees as progressive excesses in education, including “schools keeping secrets from parents about very, very, personal decisions,” and he supports the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade in the Dobbs decision, while opposing a federal ban on abortion.
Democrats Remain Cautious
Despite Republicans’ enthusiasm, Democrats are not convinced. They point out that Democrats have held every New Jersey Senate seat since 1978. “2024 will be no different,” says a national Democratic Senate campaign aide. Additionally, National Republicans have yet to invest in the New Jersey Senate race, casting some doubt on their level of commitment.
The Challenge for Bashaw
Bashaw and other Republican challengers will face an uphill battle in flipping the Senate seat. However, the prospect of a three-way race and the potentially unifying effect of a Trump visit could give them an unprecedented opportunity to shake up New Jersey’s political landscape.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
