Kustoff beats challenger who touted Christian values in Tennessee primary

Jewish incumbent, who has backing of Trump, wins Republican vote against self-funded rival George Flinn

WASHINGTON — David Kustoff, a Jewish congressman, handily won a Republican primary in Tennessee against a self-funded challenger who emphasized his “Christian, conservative” credentials.

Kustoff, who had the backing of President Donald Trump, defeated George Flinn 56-40 percent in the contest Thursday in the 8th District, which encompasses a portion of Memphis and points west.

Flinn, a radiologist who owns a network of clinics, spent $2.7 million, mostly his own money, to mount his fourth failed bid for Congress since 2012.

He drew fire from Jewish Republicans for emphasizing that he was a “Christian conservative” in campaigning when contrasting himself with Kustoff.

Kustoff is favored in the general election in a heavily Republican district.