Democrats had wanted Jeff van Drew to run for Congress for a number of years. And he generally flirted with a run each cycle. But he didn't actually jump into the race until the incumbent Republican decided to retire rather than face a potentially tough reelection in 2018. The state Dem establishment and the DCCC backed him quickly, which angered some given his A rating with the NRA and anti-LGBT voting record. Dems defended their position arguing that they needed a conservative Dem to win that district. (Meanwhile van Drew signaled movement leftward.) Republicans ended up having a rough time recruiting a candidate in the district, and basically punted after an openly racist dude won the Republican primary.
Now JVD goes on Fox News to criticize impeachment. (While voting with Dems more often than members of the Squad.) So it will be interesting to see what happens next year. Given past recruiting issues, maybe this is the best chance for Republicans to pick up the seat. But a Republican primary opponent will have plenty to use against him given his voting record. Also, I realize that polling and some threats from establishment Dems in NJ have him spooked, but I think it would have been tough for a Dem challenger to beat him in a primary.
Anyway, I'm sure Republicans, particularly Trump, will love the switch. But it seems like it would have more impact coming out a week from now? I hope the media doesn't treat him as part of "bipartisan support" against impeachment, unless they start counting Amash the same way.
Rant over.