While that is a good general election strategy, it's not a good primary one.
Considering that the majority of the NJ GOP is opposed to continued involvement in the Iraq war, I'd say it's a pretty smart play indeed. Especially for a conservative like Pennachio. (Estabrook simply cannot outflank this guy on the right.)
Nah. If he thinks he can be the anti-war candidate and win his primary, he won't. Estabrook can buy the primary anyway.
I doubt he's going to angle himself as "the anti-war candidate," just as a candidate who is not supportive of continuing the Iraq War.
And I hope you're right about Estabrook—I'd far rather she face off against Lautenberg than Pennacchio.