By Brenda Flanagan
Correspondent
Voters face a stark choice in New Jersey’s 12 Congressional District, where almost the only thing these two candidates have in common — is gender. But that’s important — because Republican physician Alieta Eck or Assembly Democrat Bonnie Watson Coleman — will be one of the first women elected to Congress from New Jersey in almost 15 years. Analysts see a political catfight.
“I think that it’s interesting that we’re kind of seeing this battling war on women when what we’re really talking about are ideological issues,” said Political analyst Brigid Harrison.
Eck’s a deeply-religious physician who – with her husband – runs a free medical clinic in Piscataway. So far, her only political experience, is losing a senate primary race. She’s primarily focused on medical issues — wants to repeal Obamacare.
“There’s no women’s physicians in Washington,” said Eck. “But I think they need the right woman down there — somebody who has the experience.”
Watson-Coleman’s a proudly liberal Democrat — and heir-apparent to Rush Holt’s congressional office. She wants tax credits for developing businesses, and supports Obamacare, and union workers’ rights.
“Sending the right woman to congress -a woman that represents the values, the expectations and the issues that resonate with citizens in the 12th congressional district,” said Watson Coleman.
The real rub: social issues like abortion. Eck is completely against it. Watson Coleman’s totally pro-choice.
“She says she’s 100 percent pro-choice. Does that mean she’s in favor of partial birth abortion or is she in favor of abortion for sex selection.” said Eck.
“I think that’s an outrageous question,” Watson Coleman said. “We need to be talking about 21st century issues and 21st century opportunities and she’s still back in the 19th century.”
New Jersey’s 12th Congressional District starts around Princeton – and stretches north and east into Middlesex County.
“Democrats out register Republicans by a 3 to 1 margin. It is a Gerry Mandered District that favors Democrats and most people have their money on Bonnie Watson Coleman,” said Harrison.
But Eck’s not feeling much love from New Jersey’s top Republican.
“A little more boost from the governor would help — it is surprising that’s the way it is,” Eck said.
Eck’s raised her own campaign money – about $58,000. Watson-Coleman’s war chest has five times that amount — and former President Clinton’s attending a fundraiser for her in Princeton tonight.