Summary
New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District is holding a special election to replace Mikie Sherrill, who became governor. Democrat Analilia Mejia leads Republican Joe Hathaway by a wide margin in polls, and the race could affect the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Key Facts
- Mikie Sherrill resigned from the House to become New Jersey’s governor.
- The special election is to fill her vacant House seat on June 8, 2026.
- Polling shows Democrat Analilia Mejia leading Republican Joe Hathaway by 17 points.
- The Cook Political Report rates the race as “Solid Democratic.”
- Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the House with 218 seats; Democrats have 213.
- If Mejia wins, the Republicans’ majority would shrink, making it harder for them to pass laws strictly along party lines.
- Hathaway emphasizes local issues and says he won’t be a “rubber stamp” for President Trump.
- Mejia focuses on protecting democracy and highlights opposition to President Trump’s policies.
