Republican Chris Smith has served in the district since 1981, focusing on health care advocacy, veterans services, and international human rights. His campaign is supported by President Donald Trump and local Republican organizations in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Democrat John Blake, a Navy veteran and union electrician from Brick Township, is running on a platform focused on everyday costs and economic pressure. Ocean County native Rachel Peace, an outsider candidate, is focusing on structural reform and family-centered policies. Both candidates share common ground on lowering costs and expanding access to care, but their paths differ. Concerns about taxes, health care and housing are also common issues across the district. The district is largely represented by retirees, small business owners and suburban voters, with rising property taxes and rising environmental concerns.