New Jersey primary 2026: Here are 3 South Jersey races worth tracking
New Jersey’s 2026 U.S. Senate and House races feature competitive Democratic primaries in South Jersey, including a four-way contest for U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew’s seat, while local races like Lumberton Township Committee elections highlight issues such as data center bans, housing policies, and fiscal responsibility amid a contentious primary season. Incumbent Gina LaPlaca, facing reelection after a DWI arrest, competes with challengers emphasizing budget discipline and community growth, while Van Drew’s Democratic opponents debate progressive policies like renewable energy subsidies and Supreme Court expansion.
New Jersey’s 2026 election cycle includes key races in South Jersey, where Democratic primaries are drawing attention ahead of the November general election. U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, the Republican incumbent for New Jersey’s southernmost district, faces no opposition in his primary but will compete against four Democrats in November. The Democratic candidates—Tim Alexander, a retired prosecutor and attorney; Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock; Bayly Winder, a former State Department employee; and Terri Reese, a Department of Labor worker—debated their positions May 20 at Stockton University. All support moratoriums on data center development, renewable energy subsidies, healthcare and Social Security reforms, and ending military action against Iran, though Alexander criticized Winder as an “outsider” and questioned his integrity. Mullock was the only candidate to oppose expanding the U.S. Supreme Court, citing concerns Republicans might act first. Meanwhile, Lumberton Township Committee elections feature a three-way Democratic primary for two seats, with incumbent Gina LaPlaca seeking reelection after her March 2025 arrest for driving while intoxicated with her child in the car. LaPlaca, who completed a 54-day treatment program, has framed her campaign around policies like bans on data centers and high-density housing, along with farmland protection. Her challengers, Terrance Benson (current mayor and retired corrections officer) and Kendra Hatfield (former committee member), emphasize fiscal responsibility, opposing new taxes and advocating for responsible growth. Republicans Kate Page and Becky Shemely run unopposed in their primary. The races reflect broader tensions in South Jersey, where debates over economic development, housing, and local governance are central. Van Drew’s Democratic opponents align on progressive stances, while LaPlaca’s reelection hinges on rebuilding trust after her legal troubles. With primary elections set for June 2, these contests will shape New Jersey’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 general election.
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