Change is sweeping across New Jersey politics this November, as a cascade of high-profile developments promises to reshape the state’s leadership and the future of its representation in Congress. The spotlight is firmly on Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, who, after a decisive victory in the gubernatorial race earlier this month, has officially resigned her seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her departure has sparked a fiercely competitive special election in the 11th congressional district, drawing a crowded field of Democratic hopefuls—including the newly announced candidate Analilia Mejia, a progressive powerhouse with deep ties to national politics.
Sherrill’s ascent to the governor’s mansion marks a pivotal moment for New Jersey. After meeting with outgoing Governor Phil Murphy on November 4, 2025, the transition process kicked into gear. Sherrill, who will formally take office on January 20, 2026, wasted no time assembling her administration. She appointed senior staff, including Chief of Staff Alex Ball, and introduced a robust transition initiative centered on 10 Action Teams. These groups, comprising experts and everyday New Jerseyans, are charged with tackling major issues such as lowering costs—starting with electric bills—improving state services, and enhancing government accountability.
“We’re bringing together experts and everyday New Jerseyans alike on a mission to deliver—by driving down costs, improving state services and accountability, and protecting our kids,” Sherrill declared during the rollout of her transition plan, as reported by NJBIZ. “These teams will embody the spirit of collaboration, creativity, and action that New Jerseyans expect from their next governor.”
Sherrill’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency is evident in her latest move: the launch of a statewide public input survey on November 25, 2025. The online survey, accessible through the official transition website, invites Garden State residents to share their ideas, concerns, and priorities for the incoming administration. According to PIX11, the survey probes topics ranging from government efficiency and accountability to ways the state can help residents save time and money, improve the lives of children, and communicate more effectively. Submissions will be reviewed by the Action Teams and an interdisciplinary task force, with the aim of shaping policy recommendations for Sherrill’s administration.
“As we begin our work, I want to hear directly from the people of New Jersey,” Sherrill stated. “Their insights will help us build a government that is collaborative, creative, and laser-focused on affordability.”
Sherrill’s approach to governance has resonated with many across the state. Her recent appearances at major events—including a rally in Newark that drew more than 3,000 supporters in person and over 750,000 views online, as well as the New Jersey Hall of Fame inductions—have underscored her popularity and the broad mandate she carries into office. During her final days in Congress, Sherrill reflected on her achievements and the trust placed in her by constituents. “It has been an honor to serve you in Congress for the past seven years,” she wrote in her resignation letter. “From cosponsoring my first bill in Congress to combat gun violence, to casting my last vote in the House demanding lower health care costs for New Jerseyans, my north star has been to fight for you.”
With Sherrill’s resignation from the 11th congressional district on November 20, 2025, the race to fill her seat has intensified. Governor Murphy wasted no time issuing a writ for a special election on November 21, 2025. The timeline is tight: candidates must file at least 500 petition signatures by December 1, 2025, to secure a spot on the ballot. The special primary election is scheduled for February 5, 2026, featuring six days of in-person early voting from January 29 to February 3. The special general election will follow on April 16, 2026, with nine days of early voting available.
Into this fray steps Analilia Mejia, whose candidacy is already making waves. Mejia, a 48-year-old Elizabeth native and longtime labor organizer, confirmed her run for Congress on November 25, 2025. Her announcement was accompanied by a high-profile endorsement from Senator Bernie Sanders, for whom she served as political director during the 2020 presidential campaign. Sanders’s backing instantly positions Mejia as a leading progressive voice in a crowded Democratic field.
“Too many Democrats in Washington are selling us out and folding under pressure. Plain old blue just won’t cut it anymore,” Mejia stated in her campaign announcement. “We need real fighters in Congress, and I’m running to be a brawler for working families. I won’t be afraid to stand up to Trump or his billionaire friends.”
Mejia’s journey to the national stage has been shaped by years of advocacy. She has worked with labor organizations such as SEIU Local 32BJ, UFCW, and UNITE HERE, and served as executive director of the New Jersey Working Families Party, where she became the face of the state’s anti-establishment progressive movement. Her experience also includes a stint in President Joe Biden’s Department of Labor and a current role as co-director of the Center for Popular Democracy.
Senator Sanders explained his endorsement: “As someone who worked in a senior role in my campaign, I know she acts with integrity and is unwavering in her commitment to our shared values. At a moment when oligarchs and corporate interests continue to capture our government, we need true progressives to take our country back for working Americans. Analilia’s experience shaping policy, her relentless advocacy, and her deep dedication to working families make her the best choice.”
Mejia’s candidacy introduces a sharp ideological dimension to the race. She is the only Hispanic candidate in a district that is approximately 17% Hispanic, and her campaign is expected to energize progressive voters and draw national attention. “I’m running to save our democracy and unrig our economy, so it actually works for working people,” Mejia said. “Billionaires and big corporations already have their representatives in Washington. I’m running because YOU need one, too.”
The field is crowded, with Mejia joining thirteen other Democrats vying for the nomination. Notable contenders include Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill, backed by Governor Murphy and local legislators, former Rep. Tom Malinowski, and Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, among others. Each brings their own political base and experience, but Mejia’s progressive credentials and Sanders’s endorsement set her apart as the race heats up.
As the special election approaches, New Jersey’s political landscape is abuzz with activity. The confluence of Sherrill’s gubernatorial transition, the launch of new participatory initiatives, and the emergence of a dynamic congressional race signal a period of transformation for the state. For voters, the coming months promise a front-row seat to the unfolding drama and the opportunity to help shape New Jersey’s future.
With deadlines looming and the stakes high, all eyes are on the candidates and the new administration as they chart the course for New Jersey’s next chapter.
