Over the next 53 days, we’ll get the opening signal for 2026; a year where a whole swath of primary challengers could start changing the Democratic Party.
These early races are a must‑watch test: can pro‑worker populists break through the donor/consultant machine?
Here are the early races I’m watching, with links to my endorsements (each one includes ways to help):
This is Endorsement #13 — for Analilia Mejía, running for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District (NJ‑11).
Election note: this is a special election — Election Day is Thursday, February 5, 2026.
Her message is blunt in a way more candidates need to be: “blue no matter who” isn’t enough — we need unbought leadership that will fight the oligarchy and make the economy work for working people.
She’s a Jersey candidate with a working‑family story: her mom landing a union job changed everything — and Analilia has spent years fighting for wins like the $15 minimum wage and paid sick days in New Jersey.
Why this endorsement
Unbought, unbossed energy. A candidate who doesn’t do the “don’t ask for much” politics that keeps working families stuck.
Pro‑worker track record. Rooted in fights for concrete material gains like wages and paid leave.
Willing to confront the right — and the donors. Not just opposition to Trumpism, but opposition to the money/power structure that enables it.
If you’re in or near NJ‑11 — or you just want to back more unbought candidates nationwide — consider donating or signing up to volunteer.