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Jessica Sanders Wins NJ Congressional Primary

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ssica-sanders-wins-nj-congressional-primary.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 23:00 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Montclair, NJ - February 9th, 2026 - The dust has settled on a closely watched Democratic primary in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, with Jessica Sanders emerging victorious and poised to replace outgoing U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill. The election, held last Tuesday, saw a competitive field of candidates vying for the nomination, following Sherrill's surprise announcement in August of last year that she would not seek another term. Sanders' win now sets the stage for a potentially fierce general election battle against Republican nominee Rosemary Becerra.

The 11th district, encompassing parts of Essex, Morris, and Passaic counties, is considered a key swing district, making the outcome of this election particularly significant for both parties. Sherrill, known for her moderate stance and focus on local issues, had held the seat since 2019, consistently winning re-election. Her departure created a power vacuum, attracting a diverse group of candidates hoping to inherit her constituency.

Sanders, a former labor organizer, ran a campaign centered on economic justice and expanding access to vital social services. Her platform prioritized raising the minimum wage to a living wage, strengthening unions, and enacting policies to make healthcare more affordable and accessible for all residents of the district. This resonated particularly with working-class voters and those concerned about rising income inequality - issues that have become increasingly prominent in national political discourse.

Genevieve Linden, a well-known figure in Newark political circles as a former aide to Mayor Ras Baraka, presented herself as an experienced and pragmatic leader. She highlighted her deep understanding of government processes and her ability to navigate complex challenges. Linden emphasized the importance of representing the diverse array of communities within the 11th district, appealing to voters seeking a unifier.

Other contenders included Mark Siracusa, a dedicated member of the Maplewood school board, who focused on improving public education and securing adequate funding for local schools. Sarah Neberdt, a Montclair teacher, also brought a strong voice for educators and advocated for policies that would empower teachers and students. While their campaigns didn't ultimately achieve the desired results, their participation underscored the strong commitment to public service within the district.

Early indications suggested relatively low voter turnout, a trend that has become increasingly common in primary elections. Analysts point to a combination of factors, including voter fatigue and a lack of widespread awareness about the candidates and issues at stake. Sanders' campaign, however, appears to have successfully mobilized key demographics, particularly within union households and among younger voters.

The general election contest between Sanders and Becerra is expected to be highly competitive. Becerra, a staunch conservative, is likely to focus on issues such as fiscal responsibility, lower taxes, and strengthening national security. She will attempt to paint Sanders as a radical liberal whose policies would harm the local economy. Sanders, in turn, will likely portray Becerra as out of touch with the needs of working families and a proponent of policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of the middle class.

The national political climate will also play a significant role in the outcome of the election. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, the 11th district is likely to be a key battleground for both parties, attracting significant attention and resources from outside groups. The result could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in Congress.

Full, unofficial results of the primary election are available on the New Jersey Elections Division website: [ https://www.njelections.com/info/results/election-night ]. Political analysts are already dissecting the data to understand voter preferences and identify key trends that may shape the general election. The coming months will undoubtedly see a flurry of campaign activity, as both candidates work to win over undecided voters and solidify their support bases. The future of New Jersey's 11th congressional district hangs in the balance.