Meet the Democratic candidates running in NJ-11 special election primary

Learn about the candidates running in the Feb. 5 Democratic primary for the 11th congressional district special election in New Jersey.

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Elections
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January 28, 2026

Eleven candidates are running in a Feb. 5 special Democratic primary election for a chance to fill New Jersey’s 11th congressional district seat, previously held by now-governor Mikie Sherrill.

The candidate who wins the February special primary will appear on a special general election ballot on Apr. 16. They will run against the sole Republican in the race, Joe Hathaway, to determine who will complete Sherrill’s term through 2026.

LEARN MORE: How New Jersey fills congressional vacancies through special elections

The Jersey Bee sat down with 10 of 11 candidates who agreed to participate in an interview about their campaign. Read the questions we asked and watch their answers below.

Authors
Simon Galperin

Simon is the founder and Executive Editor of The Jersey Bee. He is a Bloomfield resident who grew up in Bergen County and leads our editorial, engagement, product, and business development efforts.

Nikki Villafane

Nikki is The Jersey Bee’s Engagement Producer. She is a Bloomfield resident, originally from the Midwest, and helps run our community outreach and journalism programs.

Natalie Tsur

Natalie Tsur is The Jersey Bee’s Associate Civic Info Producer. She is a New Jersey resident and produces our daily newsletter and reports on issues that matter to the community.

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