New Jersey Democrats Choose Candidate for Sherrill's US House Seat

A crowded field of Democrats vie for the nomination in a special election for the 11th Congressional District.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:39pm

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New Jersey Democratic voters are selecting their party's nominee in a special election for the U.S. House seat previously held by Mikie Sherrill, who stepped down after winning the race for governor. The crowded Democratic primary field includes several prominent figures, including former Rep. Tom Malinowski, Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill, and former state officials Analilia Mejia and Tahesha Way. The Republican nominee, Randolph Mayor Joe Hathaway, is running unopposed.

Why it matters

This special election in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District is seen as a key battleground, as the district has historically leaned Republican but has trended more Democratic in recent years, especially during the Trump presidency. The winner of the Democratic primary will be heavily favored in the special general election, making this an important race for the party to solidify its hold on the seat.

The details

The Democratic primary features a diverse field of candidates with varying levels of political experience and backing from different factions of the party. Former Rep. Tom Malinowski, who lost his reelection bid in 2022, has the endorsement of Sen. Andy Kim and support from progressive groups. Brendan Gill, an Essex County commissioner, has close ties to former Gov. Phil Murphy. Analilia Mejia, a former Working Families Alliance director, has the backing of Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Tahesha Way, a former lieutenant governor and secretary of state, is also running.

  • The special Democratic primary election is being held on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
  • The special general election is scheduled for April 16, 2026.

The players

Mikie Sherrill

The incumbent U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, who is stepping down after winning the race for governor.

Tom Malinowski

A former U.S. Representative who is running in the Democratic primary to reclaim the 11th District seat.

Brendan Gill

An elected commissioner in Essex County, one of New Jersey's most populous counties, with close ties to former Gov. Phil Murphy.

Analilia Mejia

A former director of the Working Families Alliance in New Jersey and political director for Sen. Bernie Sanders, who has his endorsement as well as that of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Tahesha Way

A former lieutenant governor and secretary of state of New Jersey, who is also running in the Democratic primary.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.