January 1, Dead Congressman Payne Jr. Wins Primary, Sparks Unusual Race in NJ

Rep. Donald Payne Jr. (D-NJ) secured victory in the Democratic Party’s primary in New Jersey on Tuesday. He passed away at the age of 65 more than a month ago from a heart attack. As the sole House candidate for the 10th Congressional District on the primary ballot, voters had the option to submit a “Write-In” alternative. Carmen Bucco won the Republican primary, but faces an uphill battle in the predominantly blue district.

County officials from the Democratic Party are anticipated to hold a convention before August. They will select a new nominee for the November election once the primary results are certified on June 17.

A special election is also taking place to determine who will serve the rest of Payne’s term. A primary for this contest is scheduled for July 16, with a general election set for September 18. At least a dozen individuals, including 11 Democrats and Bucco, are participating in the race.

Payne, a six-term congressman, suffered a heart attack on April 6, leading to his hospitalization. By April 24, officials announced his death. Payne had been running for another two-year term in the House, and his name had already been printed on primary ballots.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) said, “We are saddened to be informed of the passing today of Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., who had been serving New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District since 2012, and who succeeded his father in the same position.” Johnson offered prayers for Payne’s family and friends, especially his wife Bea and their three children.

According to Payne’s congressional website, employees of the former representative continue to staff the district’s offices under the supervision of the Clerk of the House of Representatives during the interim period. Constituents are encouraged to contact the office for information and assistance.

Currently, there are 218 Republicans and 213 Democrats in the House. Including Payne’s former seat, three other vacancies remain after Reps. Bill Johnson (R-OH), Ken Buck (R-CO), and Mike Gallagher (R-WI) resigned in recent months. Vince Fong was sworn in this week as a GOP lawmaker, replacing former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).

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