TRENTON, NJ — The Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 1 is celebrating the historic victory of labor champion and progressive fighter Analilia Mejia in the Special Primary Election for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District.

Meija’s win, bolstered by the relentless grassroots work of union members and activists across the state, sends a powerful message that the working class is mobilized and demanding true representation in Congress. Her victory also proves that Democratic voters are eager for people-powered campaigns that address the affordability crisis head-on.

“This is a watershed moment for working families in New Jersey,” said Dennis Trainor, Vice President of CWA District 1. “Analilia Mejia’s victory proves that when the labor movement rallies behind one of its own, we can change the political landscape. We are incredibly proud of our members who poured their hearts into this campaign. In Congress, Analilia will be our unwavering voice for union rights, economic justice, and a future that works for all.”

Mejia’s long history of championing collective bargaining and defending the rights of working families also proved decisive. She inspired CWA members to execute a significant field operation, conducting tens of thousands of phone calls and hundreds of door-knocking shifts in critical areas across Essex County. This direct, person-to-person mobilization by working people for a working-class candidate resonated deeply with New Jersey voters.

A longtime CWA ally, Mejia stood as the clear labor candidate in the race. She began her career as a union organizer and played a key role in the CWA-supported fights for a $15 minimum wage and paid sick leave in New Jersey. She went on to become the National Political Director for Bernie Sanders’ 2020 presidential campaign and served in the Department of Labor under President Joe Biden.

Her campaign earned key labor endorsements from CWA D1, SEIU 32BJ, SEIU 1199, and Rutgers AAUP-AFT. It was also backed by progressive leaders nationwide, including U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and U.S. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Pramila Jayapal, and Ro Khanna.

“This victory is a testament to Analilia Mejia’s long commitment to the working class,” said Anna-Marta Visky, CWA District 1's New Jersey Political and Field Director. “CWA District 1 members saw in Analilia a leader who speaks our language and understands our struggles. The energy on the phones and doors was electric because we weren’t just supporting a candidate—we were mobilizing to elect our sister. This win is a blueprint, showing the unmatched power of deep, grassroots labor organizing.”

CWA District 1 congratulates Analilia Mejia on her tremendous primary victory and commends our members for their extraordinary effort. We look forward to continuing our work to secure her election on April 16.

CWA District 1 represents 145,000 workers in New Jersey, New York, and New England, including 70,000 workers in New Jersey. CWA members work in public service, telecommunications, healthcare, higher education, manufacturing, broadcast and cable television, commercial printing and newspapers, and more.