Story perspectives

Mejia Leads NJ Primary Amid Grassroots Surge

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Analilia Mejia, a progressive activist endorsed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, leads the Democratic primary for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District ahead of former Rep. Tom Malinowski.
She lacks backing from local Democratic organizations.
The shift follows Senator Robert Menendez's indictment and a court ruling ending the county endorsement system.
Mejia's strength in Essex County signals a growing grassroots movement within the Democratic Party.

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Story summary

Analilia Mejia, a progressive activist endorsed by Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, leads the Democratic primary for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District ahead of former Rep. Tom Malinowski.
She lacks backing from local Democratic organizations.
The shift follows Senator Robert Menendez's indictment and a court ruling ending the county endorsement system.
Mejia's strength in Essex County signals a growing grassroots movement within the Democratic Party.