New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024

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A special election to fill the seat representing New Jersey's 10th Congressional District in the U.S. House was held in 2024. Primaries were scheduled for July 16, 2024. The general election was held September 18, 2024. The filing deadline was May 10, 2024.

The special election filled the vacancy left by Donald Payne Jr. (D), who died on April 24, 2024.

As of March 30, 2025, 13 special elections have been called for the 118th Congress. From the 113th Congress to the 117th Congress, 67 special elections were held. For more data on historical congressional special elections, click here.

This page focuses on New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election. For more in-depth information on the district's special primaries, see the following pages:

• New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Democratic primary)
• New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Republican primary)

Candidates and election results

July 16, 2024, special Democratic primary

See also: New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Democratic primary)

Ballotpedia identified the July 16, 2024, special Democratic primary as a battleground primary. For more on the Democratic primary, click here.

LaMonica McIver won the special Democratic primary for New Jersey's 10th Congressional District on July 16, 2024. She defeated ten other candidates. The election was called to fill the vacancy created when former incumbent Donald Payne Jr. (D) died on April 24, 2024. The general election was September 18, 2024.

The winner of the special election served out the remainder of Payne Jr.'s term, which ran through January 3, 2025.

Derek Armstead and McIver led in endorsements and received the most media attention.

Armstead was first elected mayor of Linden in 2014. He defeated two-term incumbent Richard Gerbounka without the endorsement of the county’s Democratic Party. He was a member of the Linden City Council from 1993 to 2015. Armstead said he wanted to “enable all CD10 residents to enjoy tax stabilization, job creation, economic development and better education for our children.”

McIver was first elected to the Newark City Council in 2018. She was previously the personnel director for Montclair Public Schools and a public affairs manager for PSE&G. McIver said “she believes every individual deserves equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.”

According to Politico, the state had a “uniquely New Jersey ballot structure known as ‘the county line’ that’s underpinned state politics for generations." Support from county party leaders could "give their candidates a distinct advantage on the primary ballot.” New Jersey’s 10th District included three counties: Essex, Hudson, and Union. The Essex and Union county Democratic committees endorsed McIver in this race. During the Union County vote, state Senate President and county Democratic Chairman Nicholas Scutari (D) voted for Armstead. Linden, the town where Armstead held mayoral office, was located in Union County while Newark, located in Essex County, was where McIver sat on the city council. The Hudson County Democratic Committee chose not to endorse any primary candidate in the race.

Payne Jr. won the Democratic primary on June 4, 2024, six weeks after he died. State law allowed the party representatives from Essex, Hudson, and Union counties to choose a replacement candidate for the general election. That meeting was not expected to occur until after the July 16 special primary.

Payne Jr. was first elected in 2012 to replace his father, Donald Payne Sr. (D), who died from colon cancer in March 2012. Payne Sr. had first been elected in 1988 and was the first Black House member from New Jersey.

The general election was the first non-November special election held for a congressional district in New Jersey since 1950, when William Widnall (R) was elected to the 7th Congressional District following J. Parnell Thomas’ conviction on corruption charges.

See more

See more here: New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Democratic primary)

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• Endorsements

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Derek Armstead

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: 

Mayor of Linden (Assumed office: 2014)

Linden City Council (1993-2014)

Biography:  Armstead was elected as mayor of Linden in 2014. Prior to that, he had served on the Linden City Council since 1993. His experience includes working as a programmer for Union County’s Data Processing Department. Armstead graduated from Linden High School and attended Union County College.

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Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.

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Armstead said his main priority was "continued economic development and good-paying jobs" for residents. He emphasized that making union jobs available were "essential for ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security for workers."

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Armstead said his experience holding office made him the best candidate. He believed that "public service is the most effective way to assist the vast majority of people" and that holding federal office would allow him to "serve a greater amount of people and make a difference in their lives."

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Show sources

Sources: Derek Armstead 2024 campaign website, "The Issues," accessed June 17, 2024NJ Spotlight News, "Election profile: Special 10th Congressional District Primary," accessed June 17, 2024; Derek Armstead 2024 campaign website, "About Me," accessed June 17, 2024

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 in 2024.

John J. Flora

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "I'm a happily married husband and proud father of three Presidents (Kennedy, Lincoln, and Grant). Professionally, I'm a three-time GRAMMY nominated music educator from the Jersey City Public Schools who has dedicated my life to teaching the youth in my hometown. I work primarily with English language learners and children with disabilities. Politically, I'm a lifelong Democrat who cares deeply about our shared future as a nation and planet. In 2020, I challenged Donald Payne Jr. in the Primary Election and I came back in 2024 to finish what I started."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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I care deeply about democracy and question how many officials get elected in New Jersey and stay in office so long. My campaign will always prioritize going straight to the voters themselves for endorsements, not party bosses or big donors. I believe those who seek public office should earn every vote. My goal in this Special Election is to knock at least 10,000 doors in 8 weeks.

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Climate change is an existential threat that extends well beyond the borders of NJ-10. Every other issue pales in comparison. My track record as an environmental activist and award-winning educator prove I will be dedicated to this cause if elected. Over the past few years, I've worked alongside organizations like Sustainable Jersey City, the Jersey City Park Coalition, N.J. Tree Foundation, and the N.J. Audubon Society.

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Affordable housing and homelessness are two major issues plaguing the Tenth Congressional District. It is evident that the City of Newark will need more help and federal resources to permanently tackle these issues. my experience with organizations like Family Promise and the Misfit Angels instilled in me a deeper desire to help my unhoused neighbors. I intend to collaborate with other elective officials in order to repurpose unused space for shelter and professional mental health services for the unhoused population in NJ-10.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 in 2024.

LaMonica McIver

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: Newark City Council (Assumed office: 2018)

Submitted Biography:  "I am a proud product of the Newark educational system and received an English Literature degree from Bloomfield College and a master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy from Seton Hall University. I worked for many years in the educational sector, most recently as Executive Director for Essex Regional Educational Services Commission. This year, I transitioned from the public sector and am now serving as a Regional Public Affairs Manager for a company. My first foray into politics began at just 13, mobilizing youth and underscoring the power of civic participation. This early immersion, combined with my academic focus, set me on a path that seamlessly blends education and governance. In 2012, I founded Newark G.A.L.S., Inc., an organization devoted to fostering female leaders of tomorrow that has touched the lives of over 3,000 young women in the City. In 2018, I was proudly elected as the youngest woman ever to Newark Municipal Council and have been serving as Council President since 2022."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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Background: Newark Native: LaMonica is a proud native of Newark, deeply connected to her community. Family-Oriented: She is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, emphasizing her strong family values and community ties. Education: She holds an English Literature degree from Bloomfield College and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from Seton Hall University. Early Political Engagement: LaMonica's political journey began at age 13, mobilizing youth for civic participation. Educational Sector Leadership: She has held significant roles in the educational sector, including Personnel Director for Willingboro Public Schools. Public Affairs Manager: Currently, she serves as a Public Affairs Manager.

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Advocacy and Vision Youth Advocacy: She is a passionate advocate for the advancement and protection of youth. Innovative Policymaking: LaMonica is known for her innovative approaches to policy and governance. Holistic Solutions: She aims to address interconnected issues like food, housing, healthcare, education, and climate change with comprehensive solutions.

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Recent Accomplishments in Newark: Public Safety: Newark has become a model city for treating crime as a public health issue, with initiatives like the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. Education: Initiatives such as the Mayor’s Scholars program and partnerships to increase literacy and educational equity. Equitable Growth: Efforts like the Newark360 Master Plan and guaranteed income programs to address economic insecurity and climate resilience. Affordable Housing: Significant investments in affordable housing and innovative programs to support homeownership and reduce homelessness. COVID-19 Response: High vaccination rates and innovative public health initiatives to keep the community safe. Expanding Youth Voting Rights

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 in 2024.

Debra Salters

Do you have a photo that could go here? Click here to submit it for this profile!

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "I am a native Newarker who loves my people. I am an educator, a mentor, a minority small business owner, a coach an advocate and a voice for the voiceless."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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We NEED affordable housing, and I am not talking about what the mayor and city council are considering affordable; where one needs to make a minimum of $80,000 annually to survive. The average resident makes between $16,.000 - $36,000 annuaIly, and according to the U.S. rubric, that is below the poverty line. Affordable for the average resident means low - moderate, not paying more than 30% of their income for a roof over their heads.

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We NEED Livable wages that will allow the average resident to live in what our urban mayors and city councils call affordable. How about starting with the minimum wage being $20/hr. now, not down the line?

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Re-directing some of the trillions given in foreign aid to District 10 for the betterment of our communities and research for illnesses plaguing our people such as CD-10.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 in 2024.

General election

Special general election for U.S. House New Jersey District 10

LaMonica McIver defeated Carmen Bucco, Russell Jenkins, and Rayfield Morton in the special general election for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on September 18, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		LaMonica McIver (D)	81.4	27,402
		Carmen Bucco (R)	15.6	5,258
		Russell Jenkins (One for All)	1.6	530
		Rayfield Morton (Creating Real Progress)	1.4	476

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 33,666
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Democratic primary election

Special Democratic primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10

The following candidates ran in the special Democratic primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on July 16, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		LaMonica McIver	47.4	12,507
		Derek Armstead	13.6	3,596
	Submit photo	Jerry Walker	9.7	2,568
	Submit photo	Darryl Godfrey	6.9	1,815
	Submit photo	Brittany Claybrooks	5.2	1,377
	Submit photo	Shana Melius	4.5	1,196
		Sheila Montague	3.7	966
		Alberta Gordon	2.9	756
		John J. Flora	2.6	684
		Eugene Mazo	2.2	586
	Submit photo	Debra Salters	1.2	316

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 26,367
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Special Republican primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10

Carmen Bucco advanced from the special Republican primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on July 16, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Carmen Bucco	100.0	2,015

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	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 2,015
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Voting information

See also: Voting in New Jersey

Election information in New Jersey District 10: Sep. 18, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

• In-person: Aug. 28, 2024
• By mail: Postmarked by Aug. 28, 2024
• Online: Aug. 28, 2024

Was absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

N/A

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

• In-person: Sep. 17, 2024
• By mail: Received by Sep. 11, 2024
• Online: N/A

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

• In-person: Sep. 18, 2024
• By mail: Postmarked by Sep. 18, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

Yes

What were the early voting start and end dates?

Sep. 8, 2024 to Sep. 16, 2024

Were all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, was a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When were polls open on Election Day?

6:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (EST)

See also

• Special elections to the 118th United States Congress (2023-2024)
• New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Democratic primary)
• New Jersey's 10th Congressional District special election, 2024 (July 16 Republican primary)
• New Jersey's 10th Congressional District election, 2024

External links

• Search Google News for this topic

Footnotes

[show]

New Jersey's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Cory Booker (D)

Andrew Kim (D)

Representatives

District 1

Donald Norcross (D)

District 2

Jeff Van Drew (R)

District 3

Herbert Conaway (D)

District 4

Chris Smith (R)

District 5

Josh Gottheimer (D)

District 6

Frank Pallone (D)

District 7

Thomas Kean (R)

District 8

Robert Menendez (D)

District 9

Nellie Pou (D)

District 10

LaMonica McIver (D)

District 11

Mikie Sherrill (D)

District 12

Bonnie Coleman (D)

Democratic Party (11)

Republican Party (3)