Former Congressman and Sanders Aide in Tight Race for New Jersey House Seat

Tom Malinowski and Analilia Mejia vie for Democratic nomination in special election

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:55pm

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A former U.S. Representative and a former political director for Senator Bernie Sanders are locked in a tight race to become the Democratic nominee for a New Jersey House of Representatives seat that was vacated when Mikie Sherill was elected governor.

Why it matters

This special election in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District is an important test of the Democratic party's direction, with a more establishment-aligned candidate facing off against a progressive challenger. The outcome could signal the party's priorities heading into the 2028 elections.

The details

Tom Malinowski, a former U.S. Representative, started election night with a significant lead over Analilia Mejia, a onetime political director for Senator Bernie Sanders, based largely on early results from mail-in ballots. However, the margin narrowed as results from votes cast on election day were tallied, leaving the two candidates in a tight race.

  • The special election primary was held on February 6, 2026.

The players

Tom Malinowski

A former U.S. Representative who is running for the Democratic nomination in the special election.

Analilia Mejia

A former political director for Senator Bernie Sanders who is running for the Democratic nomination in the special election.

Mikie Sherill

The incumbent U.S. Representative for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District who was elected governor, creating the vacancy.

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What’s next

The winner of the Democratic primary will face the Republican nominee in the special general election to fill the House seat.

The takeaway

This tight race between a more establishment-aligned Democrat and a progressive challenger highlights the ongoing debate within the party over its future direction and priorities.