Story perspectives

New Jersey Candidates Link Affordability and Democracy Ahead of Election

1/6/2026

Center

Candidates Address Affordability

In New Jersey's 11th District, candidates tie affordability to democracy as they prepare for the February special election.
Former Rep. Tom Malinowski and others say economic insecurity enables leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump to undermine democratic norms.
Polls show democracy and economic concerns are top issues for voters.
Voter data show small increases in Democratic and Republican registrations, with unaffiliated voters still the largest group.

Right

Republicans Surpass Democrats

North Carolina now has more registered Republicans (2.315 million) than Democrats (2.313 million) for the first time.
Unaffiliated voters total nearly 3 million, remaining the largest group in the state.
Analysts say demographic changes and Democrats' mobilization challenges help explain the shift.
Republican leaders credit U.S. President Donald Trump’s agenda and ongoing registration efforts, and note the 2026 primaries will be crucial as both parties compete for these voters.

History

Historical Context

The Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson during the civil rights movement, aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting. By 1970, African American voter registration in the South surged from 29% in 1965 to over 60%. However, recent trends in New Jersey and North Carolina highlight ongoing challenges to voter access, impacting future elections as parties compete for unaffiliated voters.

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Candidates Address Affordability

In New Jersey's 11th District, candidates tie affordability to democracy as they prepare for the February special election.
Former Rep. Tom Malinowski and others say economic insecurity enables leaders like U.S. President Donald Trump to undermine democratic norms.
Polls show democracy and economic concerns are top issues for voters.
Voter data show small increases in Democratic and Republican registrations, with unaffiliated voters still the largest group.

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