WASHINGTON (JTA) — Two Jewish congressional hopefuls — a Democratic incumbent and a Republican seeking his first term — may have won seats by narrow margins.
U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) was declared the winner last Friday night over Republican Jesse Kelly in a Tucson-area district. The victory means a third term for Giffords, who was first elected in the GOP-leaning district in the Democratic sweep of 2006.
She embraced tough immigration policies as part of her campaign this year, distancing herself from national Democrats.
Meanwhile, in New York’s 1st Congressional District, a recanvassing of the voting machines erased Randy Altschuler’s 3,400 deficit, propelling him to a lead of 392 votes over Rep. Tim Bishop (D-N.Y.), who represents eastern Long Island.
Neither party was set to declare victory, as counting had yet to begin on 9,000 absentee ballots, but Bishop said Monday that he would demand a hand recount.
Altschuler, who owns a recycling company, would become the second Jewish GOP congressman, joining the Republican whip, Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.)
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
