The phrase "as they contend" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a claim or argument made by a group or individual.
Example: "The researchers argue that climate change is accelerating, as they contend that recent data supports their findings."
Alternatives: "as they assert" or "as they claim".
But as they contend for power, they pose large questions for the Middle East.
My prayers are with the Timoshenko family as they contend with this ordeal".
This trial is to determine whether Swiss Re and 12 other insurers were bound by Wilprop, as they contend.
Mr. Horn said "it remains to be seen" whether states need more money for child care, as they contend.
If Bill Clinton saw terrorism as the greatest threat facing America, as they contend, it was he who should have marshalled the bickering government agencies.
The depth of England's squad will be tested in the Six Nations as they contend with a disturbing succession of injuries.
Unlike most somber political advertisements, the O'Rourke commercials drew laughs as they contended with the carboard figure that the Governor talks and does not act.
The global "supermajor" oil companies continued to post substantial earnings but faced an erosion of their dominance as they contended with rising costs for oil extraction and slipping volume in production.
Still, she underscored that banks still had plenty of work ahead as they contended with an anemic economy, still-fragile housing market and the possibility of interest rate shocks in the months ahead.
But the move to expand exemptions could give Republicans additional political ammunition to make the case they have eased an unpopular requirement imposed on the American public, as they contended after passing their tax overhaul in December.
The three-judge panel's June 18 ruling also said Mr. Trump did not have to pay money and help the pair set up a charitable foundation, as they contended he had promised to do.
