RushHolt.com
Title
Rush Holt for Congress
Description
Rush Holt, 57, is currently serving his fourth term in Congress as Representative of New Jersey's 12th Congressional District. First elected in 1998, Rush is well-known for studying the issues, standing up for principle, getting real results, and reaching out to constituents. He has shown an ability to take on important issues that are too often neglected, and a willingness to build coalitions in order to make progress. One of New Jersey's most inspiring political stories, Holt has proven his ability to appeal to Democrats, Independents, and Republicans on his way to winning repeatedly in New Jersey's most competitive district.
Holt was elected to Congress in 1998 despite a conventional wisdom that said no Democrat could win in the 12th Congressional District. Yet, through a grassroots campaign that energized volunteers, communicated fresh ideas, and stuck to the issues that affected New Jersey families, Holt defeated incumbent Republican Mike Pappas. In 2000, Holt beat the odds-makers again when he successfully defended his seat against former Republican Congressman and Senate candidate Dick Zimmer. In both races, Holt was the underdog because the district had more Republicans than Democrats, but he succeeded by setting a new model for Democratic candidates. His campaigns were based upon good ideas, grassroots organizing, and a large number of small donations.
Prior to his election to Congress, Holt worked as a teacher, Congressional Science Fellow, and an arms control expert at the U.S. State Department. From 1980 to 1986 he taught physics, public policy, and religion cources at Swarthmore College. From 1989 until 1998, he was Assistant Director of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, the largest research facility of Princeton University and the largest center for research in alternative energy in New Jersey. He is also a five-time winner of the television game show Jeopardy.
