The Democratic Party's civil war is heating up as progressive activist Analilia Mejia has taken the lead over establishment favorite Tom Malinowski in New Jersey's 11th District special election primary, delivering another crushing blow to moderate Democrats.
Mejia, a far-left organizer backed by the party's socialist wing, currently leads with 17,647 votes (28.8%) in the crowded field of 11 candidates vying for the seat. The razor-thin margin has left political observers stunned, with NBC refusing to call the race despite no more votes expected.
Social media erupted as the results rolled in Thursday evening. Political reporter Jane Norman called it a "NAIL BITER," tweeting that "Activist Analilia Mejia, ex-Rep. Tom Malinowski leading in special Dem primary." Another observer noted the "Tightest race imaginable" with Malinowski leading by just 350 votes at one point before Mejia surged ahead.
"New Jersey U.S. House 11 Democratic Primary: Progressive Analilia Mejia now leading heavy favorite Tom Malinowski in potential shock upset," VoteHub reported as Passaic County results dropped.
This primary battle perfectly illustrates the Democrats' fundamental problem - they're being dragged further left by radical activists while losing touch with working-class Americans. Mejia's surprise showing proves that even in supposedly "moderate" districts, the socialist faction is gaining ground within the party.
For Republicans, this development couldn't be better news. The more extreme the Democratic nominee, the better chance GOP candidates have in what should be competitive races. While Democrats tear each other apart over who can be more woke, President Trump's agenda continues delivering results for actual Americans.
The final results will determine whether New Jersey Democrats choose the radical path or attempt to maintain some connection to mainstream values. Either way, this primary chaos shows a party in complete disarray - exactly what Republicans need heading into the midterm elections.
Will moderate Democrats finally wake up to what their party has become, or will they continue enabling the socialist takeover from within?