Analilia Mejia wins N.J. special election primary

Former Congressman Tom Malinowski concedes defeat to community organizer Mejia

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Former New Jersey Congressman Tom Malinowski has conceded the special Democratic primary election in the state's 11th Congressional District to community organizer Analilia Mejia. Malinowski posted a statement on social media Tuesday morning congratulating Mejia on her victory, though the Associated Press has not yet called the race.

Why it matters

This special election primary was called to fill the seat vacated by Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, who is not seeking re-election. The winner of the Democratic primary will be heavily favored to win the general election in this solidly blue district, making Mejia's victory an important shift in the political landscape of New Jersey.

The details

Mejia, a community organizer, defeated the more established Malinowski, who had previously served two terms in Congress. Her victory is seen as a win for progressive grassroots activists over a more moderate Democratic incumbent.

  • The special Democratic primary election was held on February 4, 2026.
  • Malinowski conceded the race on February 10, 2026.

The players

Analilia Mejia

A community organizer who won the Democratic primary election to fill the 11th Congressional District seat.

Tom Malinowski

The former two-term Congressman in the 11th District who was defeated by Mejia in the primary.

Mikie Sherrill

The incumbent Congresswoman in the 11th District who is not seeking re-election, triggering this special election.

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What they’re saying

“Congratulations to Analilia Mejia on her victory. I wish her the best of luck in the general election.”

— Tom Malinowski, Former Congressman (Social media)

What’s next

The winner of the Democratic primary will be heavily favored to win the general election in this solidly blue district, setting Mejia up to take Sherrill's seat in Congress.

The takeaway

Mejia's victory represents a shift in the Democratic party in New Jersey, with progressive grassroots activists defeating a more moderate incumbent. This special election will have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress.