New Jersey’s Special Election Candidates for U.S. House Seat
With Mikie Sherrill winning the New Jersey gubernatorial election, a crowded special election is unfolding to fill her vacant U.S. House seat. Thirteen Democrats are now vying for this opportunity, alongside a lone Republican candidate.
The impressive number of Democratic contenders for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District might influence the party’s messaging as the nation approaches a midterm election year. This election could very well dictate whether Republicans can maintain their House and Senate majorities in 2026, especially during President Trump’s second term.
On Monday, candidates needed to submit at least 500 signatures to appear on the special election ballot following Sherrill’s formal resignation on November 20. Outgoing Governor Phil Murphy issued a writ of election on November 21. The special primary will be held on February 5, 2026, with the general election slated for April 16, 2026.
Candidates in the Democratic Primary
A diverse group is stepping up to fill Sherrill’s seat, including a former Obama staffer and other prominent figures. Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill has committed to addressing affordability and “liberty” as he fights against Trump’s influence. He represents 22 towns in Essex and aims to make his community stronger and fairer.
Despite receiving Governor Murphy’s endorsement, Gill faces stiff competition from 12 other candidates vying for the Democratic nomination. Progressive icon Senator Bernie Sanders has backed Analilia Mejia, who served as his national political director during his 2020 campaign. Mejia, who has worked at the Labor Department under President Biden, now leads Popular Democracy, focusing on advocacy for marginalized communities.
Sanders voiced his support, saying, “We need true progressives to take our country back for working people.” Mejia’s candidacy highlights her longstanding commitment to issues affecting working families.
Another notable candidate is former Congressman Tom Malinowski, who aims to return to Congress after a loss in New Jersey’s 7th District in 2022. Senator Andy Kim has endorsed Malinowski, emphasizing his experience fighting the Trump administration.
In addition to these candidates, outgoing Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way is also in the race, receiving endorsement from the Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association for her efforts to deliver results for New Jersey residents.
Justin Strickland, a veteran and Chatham City Councilman, is campaigning on affordability, while activist Anna Lee Williams has spent years rallying causes in both nonprofit and private sectors.
Local leader Jeff Glazell, currently a Morris Township commissioner, aims to solve everyday problems for residents, focusing on stable taxes and improving infrastructure. U.S. military veteran Zach Beecher joins the race, citing concerns over rising costs and healthcare, marking his political debut.
Passaic County Commissioner John Bartlett emphasizes public service, while former Obama administration official Cammy Croft champions a variety of social causes, including healthcare reform.
Lastly, emerging candidate JL Corbin, who is an advocate and lawyer, is running on progressive values, including making housing affordable and ensuring political accountability.
The sole Republican candidate, Joe Hathaway, currently serves as mayor of Randolph Township and started his political journey as an aide to former Governor Chris Christie. As this election season evolves, the dynamics among candidates will certainly capture attention, especially given the pressing issues facing both New Jersey and the nation.
