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

	119th → ← 117th
	Special elections to the 118th Congress, 2023-2024
U.S. Senate
	CA • NE
U.S. House
	CA-20 • CO-4 • NJ-10 • NY-3 • NY-26 • OH-6 • RI-1 • TX-18; UT-2 • VA-4 • WI-8
Other 2023-2024 election coverage
	Ballotpedia Elections Coverage; 2024 Congressional Elections ; 2024 U.S. Senate Elections ; 2024 U.S. House Elections

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.”^[1]^[2]

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.”^[3]

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.^[4]^[5]^[6]

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.^[7]

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.^[8]

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.

John J. Flora (D), LaMonica McIver (D), and Debra Salters (D) completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. To read those survey responses, click here.

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

As of September 8, 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.

Candidates and election results

Note: The following list includes official candidates only. Ballotpedia defines official candidates as people who:

Register with a federal or state campaign finance agency before the candidate filing deadline
Appear on candidate lists released by government election agencies

This list will be updated after the candidate filing deadline has passed and the official list of candidates becomes available. Please contact us if you notice an official candidate missing from the list or the inclusion of a candidate who withdrew.

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

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

		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
		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

	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.

Voting information

See also: Voting in New Jersey

Election information in New Jersey District 10: July 16, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

In-person: June 25, 2024
By mail: Postmarked by June 25, 2024
Online: June 25, 2024

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

N/A

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

In-person: July 9, 2024
By mail: Received by July 9, 2024
Online: N/A

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

In-person: July 16, 2024
By mail: Postmarked by July 16, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

N/A

What were the early voting start and end dates?

July 12, 2024 to July 14, 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)

Candidate comparison

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.

Key Messages

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

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."

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."

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."

Key Messages

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

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.

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.

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."

Key Messages

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

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.

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.

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."

Key Messages

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

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.

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?

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.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/JohnJFlora2.jpg

John J. Flora (D)

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.

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.

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.

Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/1647607767854.jpg

LaMonica McIver (D)

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.

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.

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

Debra Salters (D)

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.

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?

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.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

John J. Flora (D)

Climate Change, Affordable Housing, Universal pre-K, Protecting our Senior Citizens, Campaign Finance Reform, Term Limits

LaMonica McIver (D)

1) Addressing gaps in healthcare access and affordability, including expanding coverage options, lowering prescription drug costs, and improving healthcare outcomes for marginalized communities by investing by investing in community health centers, increasing funding for programs that address social determinants of health, and promoting cultural competency training for healthcare providers. 2) Investing in Infrastructure: Addressing the nation’s aging infrastructure by funding projects to repair roads and bridges and enhancing our public transportation systems. At the same time, updating our infrastructure to protect against flooding from climate change that’s threatening lives and livelihoods. This includes building and upgrading flood de

Debra Salters (D)

The education, the safety, and protection of our children fuels my passion. We, as legislators, do not do enough to ensure that all children under our purview receive the best education in all cases. We have not supported our educators to the best of our ability, making them feel valued and appreciated for the jobs that they do. With America being known as the largest consumer of child sex, we need to be more vigilant and aware of the numbers of our children that go missing each year. Public health is also a major priority. We need to figure out a way to make mental health facilities available to the public in all areas of District 10, as well as healthcare for those in need.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

LaMonica McIver (D)

n/a

Debra Salters (D)

"Shirley"

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

LaMonica McIver (D)

Several characteristics and principles are crucial for an elected official to effectively serve their constituents and uphold democratic values. Here are some of the most important ones:

- Integrity**
- Accountability**
- Commitment to the Common Good**
- Leadership**
- Respect for the Rule of Law**
- Openness to Dialogue and Collaboration**
- Commitment to Justice and Equality**
- Pragmatism and Evidence-Based Decision Making**
- Communication Skills**
- Long-Term Vision and Sustainability**

Debra Salters (D)

For the elected official to realize and understand, because they need to do both, that he / she is a public servant; not in place to be served by the public.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

John J. Flora (D)

First and foremost, I've always placed meeting voters above fundraising. The title of the office I am seeking is Representative, not fundraiser. Furthermore, direct engagement with constituents is also more likely to inspire them to be engaged in the electoral process.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

LaMonica McIver (D)

The core responsibilities of someone elected to public office can vary depending on the level of government (local, state, national) and the specific role they hold (legislator, executive, etc.). However, there are several fundamental responsibilities that generally apply to elected officials across different contexts:

1Representation: Elected officials are primarily responsible for representing the interests, concerns, and values of their constituents.

Legislation and Policy Making Oversight and Governance: Elected officials are responsible for overseeing the implementation of laws and policies, ensuring that government agencies and officials act in accordance with legal and ethical standards.

Constituent Services: Elected officials have a duty to assist constituents with navigating government services, addressing individual concerns, and connecting them with resources and support.

Budget and Financial Management

Community Engagement and Communication: Elected officials should engage with the community through town halls, public meetings, and other forums to hear directly from constituents, explain their positions, and gather feedback.

Ethical Conduct and Accountability

Leadership and Decision Making

Promotion of Public Interest

Debra Salters (D)

The core responsibilities if someone elected to this office are to be visible, accessible, and engaging with his / her community. The responsibilities are also, and most importantly, to regulate, investigate and legislate on behalf of the residents.

What legacy would you like to leave?

LaMonica McIver (D)

I would like to leave behind a legacy of compassion, commitment, and courage.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

LaMonica McIver (D)

My very first job was working as a Future Business Leader at age 15 at Newark Public Schools. I had the job throughout High School & College.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Debra Salters (D)

Storm

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

LaMonica McIver (D)

Members of the House of Representatives, while the lower chamber, make up more than four times the size of the upper chamber. Being one of more than 400 members responsible for constituents who have the ability to choose whether those legislators return back to Washington every two years creates a high level of accountability for each member.

Debra Salters (D)

Right now, what I see with the U.S. House of Representatives is a bunch of pettiness, bickering, and fighting amongst themselves and not them accomplishing much of anything for We, The People. What I would like to see, which I believe would make them stand out, is diplomacy, professionalism, and a true love for "All" of the Americans that they are supposed to be representing.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

LaMonica McIver (D)

Yes. Understanding how laws are written, how funding is allocated, how coalitions are made and compromises are struck are all valuable skills for someone tasked with delivering results for hundreds of thousands of people. But far too often, those with access to the levers of power in our country use it to serve themselves instead of those they represent, and in that instance, experience is a detriment.

Debra Salters (D)

Previous experience could be beneficial but not necessarily so. I say this because I have seen and do see those who have been in offices for a long time with no evidence of experience being shown that being in place for the amount of time that they have has benefited We, The People in any way.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

John J. Flora (D)

The greatest challenge the United States will face over the next decade will be how to place pressure on nations that aren't doing their fair share to address the climate crisis.

LaMonica McIver (D)

The country has a number of great challenges threatening the stability of our economy, our climate and environment, the safety of vulnerable groups and the ability of women to work with their doctors to make decisions about their health and their bodies. But all of those challenges in one way or another stem from efforts on the extreme right to erode our democracy. By stacking the courts with radical conservatives, gerrymandering to create impenetrable majorities in state legislatures, rolling back voting rights and employing violent rhetoric–not to mention actual violence during the Jan. 6 insurrection–the extreme right threatens to undermine our Constitution and our very way of life.

Debra Salters (D)

I believe that the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade are foreign relations and immigration reform.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

LaMonica McIver (D)

Yes. As I stated previously, a two-year term creates accountability for elected officials and gives voters a choice about whether they’ve been well-served in Washington, and if not, who they feel will better represent them.

Debra Salters (D)

Yes, I do. In this time, one will have proven themselves to be up to the task of providing what the residents need or whether it is time to kick the individual to the curb and elect someone new. We have to get out of the habit of being in abusive relationships with our elected officials because legacy or history.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

LaMonica McIver (D)

I think term limits are a reasonable way to prevent any legislator or party from maintaining a monopoly on power. At the same time, I believe in the imperative of voters having the right to choose who represents them. These two things should always be balanced.

Debra Salters (D)

Absolutely, unequivocally, Yes!!! Term limits clear the way for fresh ideas, fresh eyes, and much less corruption in our government. Because then, the quality of life for We, The People, and our issues don't become rote to those in power because of some back door deal that has been made.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

LaMonica McIver (D)

I plan to carry forth the spirit of both the late Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. and his father who preceded him in Congress as the first African American to represent New Jersey, the late Rep. Donald M. Payne, Sr. I also have great appreciation for the dedication and tenacity of the late Shirley Chisholm who became the first African American woman in the U.S. House of Representatives. As were they, I am deeply committed to fighting for policies that promote affordability, equity, and environmental sustainability that will create a brighter future where every voice is heard, every person is valued and every community thrives.

Debra Salters (D)

Shirley Chisholm, and Harriet Tubman

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

LaMonica McIver (D)

I've had the opportunity to listen too many residents across all three counties about their specific concern and each concern brought to my attention is memorable and impactful.

Debra Salters (D)

I, myself, as Warrior4thppl, hear many stories as well everyday. Just today, as I was walking to church, there was a woman with a very basic walker that approached me and said that she was trying to get enough money to get something to eat. I told her that I would go and get her something to eat and asked her what she wanted. She let me know that she had diabetes and couldn't have certain things. As she was looking me in my eyes while she was talking to me, the tears began to flow, naturally, so I knew that she was not lying. After walking to my vehicle, I drove back to see if she was still there, and she was. I went to Whole Foods and bought her something healthy, a natural drink that would balance out her sugar and a water. When I returned, she let me know that she was at that location trying to get a new bank card because someone took her pocketbook, and they knew her there. I urged her to eat first, because at this point, she was shaking more than before. I advised her who to speak with to resolve the situation.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

LaMonica McIver (D)

Both. No reasonable legislator expects to get everything they want in policy negotiations. The beauty of our representative democracy is that in a country of many viewpoints, all have a voice. That said, there are some issues on which we should not be malleable. I will always stand for protecting a woman’s right to choose, for every American to have access to the ballot box, and to live without fear of violence.

Debra Salters (D)

I do believe that compromise is necessary for policy making but not to the detriment of We, The People.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

LaMonica McIver (D)

My priorities will always lie in delivering results and resources for my constituents and in protecting the most vulnerable among us. This will not change based on how funds are allocated in Congress.

Debra Salters (D)

I am not sure what is meant by this question. It seems to suggest "power tripping" of some sort, which I have never had a problem with. The needs of the people are the priority in every case.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

LaMonica McIver (D)

The House should use its investigative powers responsibly, judiciously and never as a function of political calculations or vendettas. Abuses of power should never be tolerated, without regard to party affiliation or ideology. That means members of the House should investigate any time there is a reasonable belief that government officials are involved in corrupt activities. It also means those same powers must not be weaponized against the minority party by the majority and should never be abused for any reason.

Debra Salters (D)

The U.S. House should use its investigative powers to investigate corrupt judges, prosecutors, and public officials who put the citizens' lives at risk by not following the letter of the law and necessary procedures that benefit the people instead of the deals that they have on the table to make themselves look good.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

John J. Flora (D)

Kennedy, Lincoln, & Grant (my three children)

LaMonica McIver (D)

Local 32 BJ, Hotel Trades Union, Collective PAC, SEIU, Essex & Union Democratic Party, Payne Family, Mayors from Newark, East Orange, Orange, Roselle, & Irvington, Essex County Executive, Legislative Members from District 28 & 29th.

What committees interest you?

LaMonica McIver (D)

There are several committees that interest me. It would be a privilege to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee where Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. served most recently. Terminal A at Newark Airport was recently rated among the best in the country, which is much in part to Rep. Payne’s leadership on infrastructure investment. We must remain committed to his vision and continue to invest in our roads, bridges, airport, railway, and port to achieve the most efficient network to facilitate the movement of goods and people.

Debra Salters (D)

Education and the workforce, financial services, and agriculture

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

LaMonica McIver (D)

All levels of government should be financially transparent and equally held accountability.

Debra Salters (D)

Financial transparency is paramount and one of the things that we lack most from our government. The government, no matter which branch, owes it to the residents to know where every penny has been spent, and / or misappropriated.

Campaign advertisements

This section includes a selection of up to three campaign advertisements per candidate released in this race, as well as links to candidates' YouTube, Vimeo, and/or Facebook video pages. If you are aware of other links that should be included, please email us.

Derek Armstead

Ballotpedia did not come across any campaign ads for Derek Armstead while conducting research on this election. If you are aware of any ads that should be included, please email us.

LaMonica McIver

Ballotpedia did not come across any campaign ads for LaMonica McIver while conducting research on this election. If you are aware of any ads that should be included, please email us.

Endorsements

See also: Ballotpedia: Our approach to covering endorsements

Click the links below to see official endorsement lists published on candidate campaign websites for any candidates that make that information available. If you are aware of a website that should be included, please email us.

Election competitiveness

Polls

See also: Ballotpedia's approach to covering polls

We provide results for polls that are included in polling aggregation from FiveThirtyEight and RealClearPolitics, when available. No polls were available for this election. To notify us of polls published in this election, please email us.

Race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.^[9]
Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.^[10]^[11]^[12]

Race ratings: New Jersey's 10th Congressional District election, 2024
Race tracker	Race ratings
	November 5, 2024	October 29, 2024	October 22, 2024	October 15, 2024
The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic
Decision Desk HQ and The Hill	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic	Safe Democratic
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

Election spending

Campaign finance

This section contains campaign finance figures from the Federal Election Commission covering all candidate fundraising and spending in this election.^[13] It does not include information on fundraising before the current campaign cycle or on spending by satellite groups. The numbers in this section are updated as candidates file new campaign finance reports. Candidates for Congress are required to file financial reports on a quarterly basis, as well as two weeks before any primary, runoff, or general election in which they will be on the ballot and upon the termination of any campaign committees.^[14] Click here to view the reporting schedule for candidates for U.S. Congress in 2022.

U.S. Congress campaign reporting schedule, 2022
Report	Close of books	Filing deadline
Year-end 2021	12/31/2021	1/31/2022
April quarterly	3/31/2022	4/15/2022
July quarterly	6/30/2022	7/15/2022
October quarterly	9/30/2022	10/15/2022
Pre-general	10/19/2022	10/27/2022
Post-general	11/28/2022	12/08/2022
Year-end 2022	12/31/2022	1/31/2023

Name	Party	Receipts*	Disbursements**	Cash on hand	Date
Derek Armstead	Democratic Party	$119,120	$119,352	$-232	As of December 31, 2024
Brittany Claybrooks	Democratic Party	$15,471	$15,183	$289	As of December 31, 2024
John J. Flora	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Darryl Godfrey	Democratic Party	$146,900	$146,900	$0	As of August 12, 2024
Alberta Gordon	Democratic Party	$12,882	$958	$11,864	As of June 30, 2024
Eugene Mazo	Democratic Party	$0	$1,232	$7,293	As of December 31, 2024
LaMonica McIver	Democratic Party	$454,854	$403,405	$51,449	As of August 29, 2024
Shana Melius	Democratic Party	$18,127	$12,755	$6,871	As of December 31, 2024
Sheila Montague	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Debra Salters	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Jerry Walker	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2024. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC). * According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee." According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election. * Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

Satellite spending

See also: Satellite spending

Satellite spending describes political spending not controlled by candidates or their campaigns; that is, any political expenditures made by groups or individuals that are not directly affiliated with a candidate. This includes spending by political party committees, super PACs, trade associations, and 501(c)(4) nonprofit groups.^[15]^[16]^[17]

If available, this section includes links to online resources tracking satellite spending in this election. To notify us of a resource to add, email us.

By candidate	By election
Derek Armstead Brittany Claybrooks John Flora Darryl Godfrey Eugene Mazo LaMonica McIver Shana Melius Jerry Walker	FEC satellite spending summary

District analysis

Click the tabs below to view information about voter composition, past elections, and demographics in both the district and the state.

District map - A map of the district in place for the election.
Competitiveness - Information about the competitiveness of 2024 U.S. House elections in the state.
Presidential elections - Information about presidential elections in the district and the state.
State party control - The partisan makeup of the state's congressional delegation and state government.

District map

Competitiveness
Presidential elections

State party control

Below was the map in use at the time of the election. Click the map below to enlarge it.

See also: Primary election competitiveness in state and federal government, 2024

This section contains data on U.S. House primary election competitiveness in New Jersey.

New Jersey U.S. Senate competitiveness, 2014-2024
Office	Districts/ offices	Seats	Open seats	Candidates	Possible primaries	Contested Democratic primaries	Contested Republican primaries	% of contested primaries	Incumbents in contested primaries	% of incumbents in contested primaries
2024	1	1	0	7	2	1	1	100.0%	0	0.0%
2020	1	1	0	7	2	1	1	100.0%	1	100.0%
2018	1	1	0	4	2	1	1	100.0%	1	100.0%
2014	1	1	0	5	2	0	1	50.0%	0	0.0%

U.S. House

New Jersey U.S. House competitiveness, 2014-2024
Office	Districts/ offices	Seats	Open seats	Candidates	Possible primaries	Contested Democratic primaries	Contested Republican primaries	% of contested primaries	Incumbents in contested primaries	% of incumbents in contested primaries
2024	12	12	1	50	24	7	9	66.7%	7	63.6%
2022	12	12	1	56	24	6	9	62.5%	6	54.5%
2020	12	12	0	50	24	8	7	62.5%	8	66.7%
2018	12	12	2	49	24	8	4	50.0%	5	50.0%
2016	12	12	0	37	24	6	4	41.7%	7	58.3%
2014	12	12	3	45	24	7	5	50.0%	4	44.4%

Post-filing deadline analysis

The following analysis covers all U.S. House districts up for election in New Jersey in 2024. Information below was calculated on April 14, 2024, and may differ from information shown in the table above due to candidate replacements and withdrawals after that time.

Fifty candidates, including 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans, ran for New Jersey’s 12 U.S. House districts. That’s 4.17 candidates per district, less than the 4.67 candidates per district that ran in 2022 but the same as the 4.17 candidates per district that ran in 2020.

This was the first election to take place after U.S. District Judge Zahid Quraishi issued a preliminary injunction blocking the use of the county line primary ballot design in the Democratic Primary.

The 3rd Congressional District was the only open district, meaning no incumbents filed to run. That’s the same as in 2022, when one district was open. There were no open districts in 2020, two in 2018, none in 2016, and three in 2014.

Incumbent Andrew Kim (D-3rd) did not run for re-election to run for the U.S. Senate.

Nine candidates—five Democrats and four Republicans—ran for the open 3rd Congressional District, the most candidates that ran for a seat in New Jersey in 2024.

Sixteen primaries—seven Democratic and nine Republican—were contested in 2024, the most this decade. Fifteen primaries were contested in 2022 and 2020, respectively. There were 12 contested primaries in 2018, 10 contested primaries in 2016, and 12 in 2014.

Seven incumbents—five Democrats and two Republicans—faced primary challengers in 2024. That’s one more than in 2022, when six incumbents faced primary challengers, but less than in 2020, when eight faced primary challengers.

Candidates filed to run in the Republican and Democratic primaries in all twelve districts, meaning no seats were guaranteed to either party.

Partisan Voter Index

See also: The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

Heading into the 2024 elections, based on results from the 2020 and 2016 presidential elections, the Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district was D+30. This meant that in those two presidential elections, this district's results were 30 percentage points more Democratic than the national average. This made New Jersey's 10th the 18th most Democratic district nationally.^[18]

2020 presidential election results

The table below shows what the vote in the 2020 presidential election would have been in this district. The presidential election data was compiled by Daily Kos.

2020 presidential results in New Jersey's 10th based on 2024 district lines
Joe Biden	Donald Trump
80.6%	18.6%

Inside Elections Baselines

See also: Inside Elections

Inside Elections' Baseline is a figure that analyzes all federal and statewide election results from the district over the past four election cycles. The results are combined in an index estimating the strength of a typical Democratic or Republican candidate in the congressional district.^[19] The table below displays the Baseline data for this district.

Inside Elections Baseline for 2024
Democratic Baseline	Republican Baseline	Difference
78.8	19.3	D+59.5

Presidential voting history

See also: Presidential election in New Jersey, 2020

New Jersey presidential election results (1900-2020)

15 Democratic wins
16 Republican wins

Year	1900	1904	1908	1912	1916	1920	1924	1928	1932	1936	1940	1944	1948	1952	1956	1960	1964	1968	1972	1976	1980	1984	1988	1992	1996	2000	2004	2008	2012	2016	2020
Winning Party	R	R	R	D	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D

See also: Party control of New Jersey state government

Congressional delegation

The table below displays the partisan composition of New Jersey's congressional delegation as of May 2024.

Congressional Partisan Breakdown from New Jersey
Party	U.S. Senate	U.S. House	Total
Democratic	2	9	11
Republican	0	3	3
Independent	0	0	0
Vacancies	0	0	0
Total	2	12	14

State executive

The table below displays the officeholders in New Jersey's top four state executive offices as of May 2024.

State executive officials in New Jersey, May 2024
Office	Officeholder
Governor	Phil Murphy
Lieutenant Governor	Tahesha Way
Secretary of State	Tahesha Way
Attorney General	Matt Platkin

State legislature

New Jersey State Senate

Party		As of February 2024
	Democratic Party	25
	Republican Party	15
	Other	0
	Vacancies	0
Total		40

New Jersey General Assembly

Party		As of February 2024
	Democratic Party	52
	Republican Party	28
	Other	0
	Vacancies	0
Total		80

Trifecta control

The table below shows the state's trifecta status from 1992 until the 2024 election.

New Jersey Party Control: 1992-2024
Thirteen years of Democratic trifectas • Eight years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year	92	93	94	95	96	97	98	99	00	01	02	03	04	05	06	07	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24
Governor	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D
Senate	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	S	S	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D
Assembly	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D

Election context

District history

The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2018.

2022

See also: New Jersey's 10th Congressional District election, 2022

General election

General election for U.S. House New Jersey District 10

Incumbent Donald Payne Jr. defeated David Pinckney, Cynthia Johnson, Kendal Ludden, and Clenard Childress Jr. in the general election for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on November 8, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Donald Payne Jr. (D)	77.6	100,710
	Submit photo	David Pinckney (R)	20.0	25,993
		Cynthia Johnson (Jobs and Justice)	1.5	1,989
	Submit photo	Kendal Ludden (L)	0.5	634
	Submit photo	Clenard Childress Jr. (The Mahali Party)	0.3	381

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 129,707
= 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.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Dorothy Jane Humphries (Together We Can)

Democratic primary election

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

Incumbent Donald Payne Jr. defeated Imani Oakley and Akil Khalfani in the Democratic primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on June 7, 2022.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Donald Payne Jr.	83.3	29,680
	Imani Oakley	10.6	3,764
	Akil Khalfani	6.1	2,169

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 35,613
= 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

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

David Pinckney defeated Garth Stewart in the Republican primary for U.S. House New Jersey District 10 on June 7, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Submit photo	David Pinckney	82.5	3,581
	Submit photo	Garth Stewart	17.5	760

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 4,341
= 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.