Full Breakdown
Upcoming Congressional Races in New Jersey and New Hampshire
11/11/2025, 6:26:05 AM
Mikie Sherrill's House Seat Contested by Multiple Candidates
Following Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill's recent victory in the New Jersey gubernatorial race, a competitive race has emerged for her House seat representing the 11th Congressional District. Candidates include former Congressman Tom Malinowski, Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill, White House alum Cammie Croft, and Morris Township Mayor Jeff Grayzel. Gill, who officially launched his campaign, emphasized his local roots and past support for Sherrill. Malinowski, who previously represented the 7th Congressional District, highlighted his experience and commitment to the 11th District, asserting he would be a voting resident before the primary.
The timeline for the special election remains uncertain as Sherrill has not yet resigned from Congress. She will assume the governorship on January 20, 2026, and cannot hold both positions simultaneously. Sherrill has indicated she will work with leadership to facilitate a smooth transition for her successor.
Competitive Primary for Bonnie Watson Coleman's Seat
In New Jersey's 12th Congressional District, the retirement of Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman has opened the door for a competitive Democratic primary. Candidates include East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen and Somerset County Commissioner Shanel Robinson, both of whom announced their campaigns shortly after Watson Coleman’s announcement. Other potential candidates include State Sen. Andrew Zwicker and Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, among others.
The district is characterized by its diversity, with significant populations of various ethnic backgrounds. The primary is expected to reflect this diversity, and candidates may face challenges related to geographical representation, as seen in previous elections. Watson Coleman, a prominent progressive voice, has expressed hope that her successor will continue to advocate for similar policies.
Stefany Shaheen's Opposition to Shutdown Deal
In New Hampshire, Stefany Shaheen, daughter of Senator Jeanne Shaheen, is running for Congress while publicly opposing a recent Senate deal that ended a government shutdown without extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies. The deal, supported by her mother and seven other Democrats, has drawn ire from many within the party, including Stefany, who stated, “We need to both end this shutdown and extend the ACA tax credits. Otherwise, no deal.”
This familial divide highlights broader tensions within the Democratic Party, as many candidates criticize the leadership for compromising on key issues. The fallout from this deal could significantly impact Stefany's campaign in a crowded primary for the seat vacated by Representative Chris Pappas.
Implications of the Shutdown Deal
The Senate's agreement to end the shutdown has sparked significant backlash among Democrats, particularly those advocating for the extension of ACA subsidies. Critics argue that the deal undermines the party's commitment to health care reform and could lead to increased premiums for millions of Americans. Prominent figures, including Rep. Mikie Sherrill, have condemned the agreement, calling it "malpractice."
As the political landscape shifts in both New Jersey and New Hampshire, these congressional races will be closely watched, particularly as candidates navigate the complexities of party loyalty and constituent needs in their campaigns.
