Former Rep. Tom Malinowski conceded Tuesday to progressive activist Analilia Mejia in the Democratic special primary for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, a contest to fill the seat vacated when Mikie Sherrill stepped down to become governor. The race had not been called by The Associated Press as mail-in ballots were still being counted, but Mejia was set to face Republican Joe Hathaway in the April 16 special general election.
The crowded Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District drew national attention ahead of the 2026 midterm cycle, as Democrats debated whether a bold progressive message or a more centrist approach is the best path in suburban districts.
Mejia, a longtime progressive activist, credited her organizing background with helping her build support across the northern New Jersey district. Malinowski, a former congressman, conceded Tuesday and said he would back Mejia in the special general election.
The special election will fill the seat left vacant after Mikie Sherrill stepped down to become governor. New Jersey scheduled the special primary for Feb. 5, 2026, and the special general election for April 16, 2026, according to the Federal Election Commission.
Mail-in ballots were still being processed in parts of the district, and ballots postmarked by Election Day can arrive later and still be counted. The Associated Press had not called the Democratic primary as of Tuesday.
Sherrill and Sen. Andy Kim, who had supported Malinowski in the primary, endorsed Mejia on Tuesday, according to the AP.
Mejia, 48, has led progressive organizations in New Jersey and nationally and previously served as political director for Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign, the AP reported. She also had backing from prominent progressives including Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
Tensions over outside spending, including from a super PAC aligned with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, became a flashpoint late in the contest. Malinowski criticized what he called a “massive flood of dark money” spent on ads in the final weeks, while Mejia argued the outcome reflected grassroots organizing rather than PAC influence.
Mejia will face Republican Joe Hathaway, who was unopposed in the GOP primary, in the April 16 special general election. The winner will serve out the remainder of Sherrill’s term until next January, and the district will also hold regularly scheduled elections later this year, including a June primary and a November general election, the AP reported.
