The focus at the ballot box intensifies this week as special elections take center stage in Georgia and New Jersey, alongside ongoing congressional redistricting battles. With both parties aiming for the House majority, the stakes are high, especially as the Supreme Court election in Wisconsin also approaches.
The primaries for 2026 are around the corner, starting in March before a temporary pause. April will see significant electoral contests, particularly a special race in Georgia where Republican Clay Fuller, a Trump supporter, is set to compete against Democratic candidate Sean Harris for the vacant seat previously held by Marjorie Taylor Greene in District 14.
Fuller, who is a district attorney and Air National Guardsman, and Harris, a retired brigadier general and cattle farmer, secured the top two spots in a crowded March primary. Since neither obtained a majority, they’ll compete again in a runoff. Republicans currently have a slim edge in the House, with a 218-214 majority, making this election particularly crucial. If Harris can tighten the gap, it could signal a significant moment for national Democrats.
April 7 — Wisconsin Supreme Court Election
In Wisconsin, a Supreme Court election scheduled for the same day could significantly impact the state’s political landscape. Although the races are technically nonpartisan, recent years have seen a sharp increase in partisanship. Following last year’s election, where significant money was poured into campaigns, Democrats currently hold a narrow majority in the court. The retirement of a conservative judge means this election might tip the balance further in favor of progressives.
April 16 — NJ-11 Special Election
Moving to New Jersey, the local mayor, Joe Hathaway, is aiming for a special election win to take the seat vacated by Governor Mikie Sherrill. Hathaway is up against Democrat Analilia Mejia, a progressive organizor and supporter of notable figures like Senator Bernie Sanders. Mejia’s recent primary win over well-known former Congressman Tom Malinowski illustrates the ongoing struggle between progressive and traditional Democrats. Interestingly, the district, once a Republican stronghold, could be less predictable this time around.
April 21 — Virginia Redistricting Referendum
Meanwhile, in Virginia, voters will decide on a referendum backed by Democrats that aims to create additional left-leaning congressional districts. If successful, it could shift the state’s current 6-5 majority more favorably towards Democrats. Early voting is shown to be higher than in previous elections, which may play a crucial role in the outcomes.
While Republicans argue against the redistricting efforts, claiming they’re attempts to consolidate power, Democrats defend their stance as a necessary response to gerrymandering. In a broader context, the outcome of these elections may significantly influence which party holds the House majority moving forward.
