Full Breakdown
Analilia Mejia Wins Democratic Primary in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District
2/13/2026, 6:21:28 AM
Primary Election Results and Context
Analilia Mejia, a progressive activist and former political director for Senator Bernie Sanders, has won the Democratic primary for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, a seat previously held by Governor Mikie Sherrill. The primary, held on February 5, 2026, saw Mejia narrowly defeat former Congressman Tom Malinowski, securing approximately 29.3% of the vote compared to Malinowski's 27.6%. Mejia's victory was confirmed after Malinowski conceded on February 10, acknowledging her "hard-won victory" and expressing his intent to support her in the upcoming special general election against Republican Joe Hathaway on April 16.
Mejia's Campaign and Support
Mejia's campaign focused on progressive issues, including the abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and economic policies aimed at supporting the working class. She was endorsed by prominent progressive figures, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Mejia emphasized grassroots organizing, claiming her campaign's success was due to "people power," as her team knocked on over 100,000 doors and made 300,000 phone calls.
Influence of AIPAC and Campaign Dynamics
The race was notably influenced by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which funded a super PAC that spent over $2 million on negative ads targeting Malinowski. These ads attempted to link him to President Donald Trump's immigration policies, which Mejia criticized as "horrendous" and misleading. Malinowski, in his concession, attributed his loss partly to this "massive flood of dark money," stating that it created confusion among voters regarding his positions.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite her victory, Mejia faces criticism from Republican opponents who label her as too far left for the district, which has historically leaned Republican until recent shifts in voter demographics. Joe Hathaway, her Republican opponent, has already begun framing her policies as radical, suggesting they would make the district less safe. Political analysts have expressed concerns that Mejia's progressive platform may not resonate with the moderate voters in the suburban district.
What's Next
The special general election on April 16 will determine who fills the remainder of Sherrill's term, which ends in January 2027. Following this election, a regular primary is scheduled for June 2, with a general election on November 3 for a full two-year term. Mejia's win is seen as a potential signal of a broader shift within the Democratic Party, as progressive candidates gain traction in traditionally moderate districts.
Official Statements & Responses
In her victory speech, Mejia stated, "What we are hungry for is an America that sees all of us as human," emphasizing her commitment to represent the interests of her constituents over special interests. Malinowski praised her campaign, saying, "Analilia deserves unequivocal praise and credit for running a positive campaign and for inspiring so many voters." He also criticized AIPAC's influence, stating, "The outcome of this race cannot be understood without also taking into account the massive flood of dark money."
Verbatim Quotes
- “People will say that this district is not the kind of district in which a progressive or a lefty could win, but it’s not about left-right. It’s about right and wrong,” — Analilia Mejia
- “I congratulate Analilia Mejia on her hard-won victory in the NJ-11 special primary.” — Tom Malinowski
- “But the outcome of this race cannot be understood without also taking into account the massive flood of dark money that AIPAC spent on dishonest ads during the last three weeks. … The threat unlimited dark money poses to our democracy is far more significant than the views of a single member of Congress on Middle East policy.” — Tom Malinowski
- “I think it is horrendous what AIPAC attempted to do in this race.” — Analilia Mejia
Mejia's victory marks a significant moment in New Jersey politics, reflecting the growing influence of progressive ideals within the Democratic Party as the nation approaches the midterm elections.
