Tom Malinowski Joins Race for New Jersey Congressional Seat

Former Democratic Congressman Tom Malinowski is targeting President Donald Trump as he aims to reclaim a seat in Congress. Malinowski, who previously served two terms and was a diplomat under President Barack Obama, declared his candidacy on Thursday for New Jersey’s upcoming open 11th Congressional District seat.

Currently, this seat is held by Democratic Rep. Mikie Sherrill, who recently achieved a significant victory in the gubernatorial election. Sherrill is set to be inaugurated as New Jersey’s governor on January 20, prompting a special election to fill her congressional position.

In his campaign announcement video, Malinowski stated, “I’m running to give New Jerseyans what they need again: better and lower-cost health care, housing, and transportation, and to stand up against Trump’s corruption, abuse of power, and attack on our democracy. I’ll be ready for the fight from day one.”

He further emphasized his intent to continue the work of his predecessor, aiming to eliminate tariffs that he believes are adversely affecting New Jersey residents.

Malinowski was first elected in 2018 for the neighboring 7th District, defeating the incumbent Republican Rep. Leonard Lance, and flipping the seat from red to blue. He narrowly secured reelection two years later but lost to New Jersey Senate Republican Leader Thomas Kean Jr. in a rematch in 2022.

Now, he joins a growing number of Democrats vying for the opportunity to represent the northern New Jersey district following Sherrill’s departure.

Sherrill had successfully flipped the district with her 2018 win and maintained her position in subsequent elections. During a conversation with Fox News Digital, Sherrill discussed the importance of a seamless transition and indicated her commitment to communicating with House leadership about her resignation and the special election timeline.