Progressive Analilia Mejia defeats moderate Tom Malinowski in NJ House primary

Mejia's win marks a victory for the Democratic party's left wing over its moderates.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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In a tight race for the Democratic nomination in New Jersey's 11th congressional district, progressive candidate Analilia Mejia has defeated moderate Tom Malinowski. Mejia, a former aide to Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders, led Malinowski by fewer than 1,000 votes as of the latest count. Malinowski, a former congressman, has conceded the race, congratulating Mejia on her "hard-won victory." Mejia's win is seen as a boost for the progressive wing of the Democratic party over its more moderate faction.

Why it matters

The race in New Jersey's 11th district was closely watched as a proxy battle between the Democratic party's progressive and moderate wings. Mejia's victory signals that progressive policies and candidates are gaining ground, even in more suburban and moderate districts like this one. The outcome could also impact the balance of power in the House of Representatives if Mejia wins the general election in April.

The details

Malinowski, the former Democratic congressman, had been leading in early returns, but Mejia's lead grew in recent days to nearly 900 votes. Mejia garnered high-profile support from prominent progressives like Sanders, Warren, and Ocasio-Cortez. The candidates clashed over issues like immigration and U.S. aid to Israel, with Mejia supporting the abolition of ICE and Malinowski's voting record on Israel drawing criticism from a pro-Israel PAC.

  • The primary election was held on February 5, 2026.
  • Malinowski conceded the race to Mejia on February 10, 2026.

The players

Analilia Mejia

A progressive Democrat and former aide to Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders who won the primary election for New Jersey's 11th congressional district.

Tom Malinowski

A moderate Democratic former congressman who was defeated by Mejia in the primary election.

Bernie Sanders

An Independent U.S. Senator who endorsed Mejia's campaign.

Elizabeth Warren

A Democratic U.S. Senator who endorsed Mejia's campaign.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

A Democratic U.S. Representative who endorsed Mejia's campaign.

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What they’re saying

“I congratulate Analilia Mejia on her hard-won victory in the NJ-11 special primary. I look forward to supporting her in the April general election. It is essential that we send a Democrat to Washington to fill this seat, not a rubber stamp for Trump.”

— Tom Malinowski, Former Congressman (Social media)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Mejia will face off against Republican Joe Hathaway in the April 16 special general election to fill the remainder of the congressional term.

The takeaway

Mejia's victory represents a significant win for the progressive wing of the Democratic party, signaling their growing influence even in more moderate districts. The outcome could have broader implications for the balance of power in the House of Representatives.