How Israel emerged as an issue in New Jersey's hottest congressional races

WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal has given embattled New Jersey House Republicans another way to try to stave off a Democratic wave this fall.

Both Reps. Tom MacArthur and Leonard Lance quickly embraced Trump's decision, part of their effort to attract pro-Israel voters who might otherwise go elsewhere in a state where a recent Monmouth University Poll gave Trump a 35 percent job approval rating.

"There are voters where Israel is a top priority for them and would swing their vote regardless of party," said MacArthur's campaign consultant, Chris Russell. "People do vote on issues. This is one that is important to a significant group."

The issue is potent because both MacArthur and Lance face challenges from well-financed Democrats who previously served in President Barack Obama's administration and supported the deal to relax economic sanctions in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear program.

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