Listen to this article

The basics:

• Mejia defeats Republican Joe Hathaway in NJ-11 special election
• Democrats retain control of the New Jersey 11th Congressional District seat
• Former labor organizer and Working Families Alliance leader rises to Congress
• District covering Essex, Morris, Passaic counties may see November rematch

Democrat Analilia Mejia won the special election in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. Mejia defeated Republican Joe Hathaway, keeping the seat in Democratic hands.

The Associated Press called the race shortly after polls closed April 16, with Mejia ultimately building a decisive lead. Her victory adds to a string of Democratic wins and gives progressives another foothold in a narrowly divided U.S. House of Representatives.

Longtime labor organizer and former head of the Working Families Alliance, Mejia rose from a crowded primary field. She ran on an economic populist platform paired with sharp criticism of President Donald Trump.

Mejia will fill the remainder of the term previously held by Gov. Mikie Sherrill, who vacated the seat after her November 2026 election. The 11th District spans parts of Essex, Morris and Passaic counties.

The race drew national attention as a test of progressive strength in a suburban district. Prominent left-leaning figures back Mejia, while Hathaway framed the contest as a referendum on what he described as pragmatic leadership versus far-left policy proposals. The two could meet again in November in the race for a full two-year term.

People have the power

“We the people, who 250 years after our founding find ourselves living in the most trying of times, have the power to affect the globe if we so desire it,” said Mejia in her victory speech at her election night watch party at the Montclair Art Museum. “We the people hold the pen, and if we wield it with justice, with kindness, with humanity, we can be transform lives for the better.

“My opponent has spent his whole campaign calling me names and saying my ideas are too radical. But we know, that is a mind trick, on brand for a spin doctor, but easily countered if you just open your eyes. It is not radical to say that one of the wealthiest nations in the world should do more to protect the health of its people.”

She promised to fight for the district’s residents every single day.

“The truth is simple: our system is broken,” said Mejia. “And we are done waiting our turn. This victory was never about me. It was about us. It was about what we can build together. And our work is not done tonight.

“This is only the beginning.”

Heading for a re-match?

In a social media post, Sherrill praised her successor and reflected on her time representing the district.

“Congratulations to @AnaliliaForNJ on being elected today to represent the people of New Jersey’s 11th District! I know Analilia is a fierce fighter for families, and will work to drive down costs just as much as she will to stand up to Trump when he harms New Jersey,” Sherrill wrote, continuing, “I was honored to represent NJ-11 in Congress, its caring communities, dynamic small businesses, and engaged citizens. I know they will be well served by their next representative,” Sherrill wrote.

Hathaway, 38, a former Yale University football player has worked in the private sector as well as in politics. His experiences includes serving as former mayor of Randolph and as an aide to former Gov. Chris Christie. In his concession statement, he struck a respectful tone while also signaling a continued campaign.

“Tonight, I want to congratulate Analilia Mejia on her victory in this special election and wish her well as she prepares to represent New Jersey’s 11th District,” said Hathaway.

Looking toward November, he said, “I still believe the broader electorate in NJ-11 is looking for balanced, pragmatic leadership, not the kind of far-left policies embraced by Ms. Mejia,” said Hathaway. “That conversation is not over.”