Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), a former Democrat who switched parties during President Trump's first impeachment, has been defeated by Democrat Zack Mullock in the race for New Jersey's 2nd Congressional District, according to preliminary results from Decision Desk HQ. Mullock, the mayor of Cape May, emerged victorious in a contest that political handicappers had recently shifted toward the Republican, but which ultimately broke for the Democrat.
Van Drew conceded the race on election night, telling supporters, "I've already conceded about 10 minutes ago, I called Zack Mullock and I conceded his victory. He is and will be our new congressman for the next two years. I wish him the very best. I wish him success. His success is our success." His remarks were reported by New Jersey-based ABC 6 Action News.
The Cook Political Report had moved the district from "solidly Republican" to "likely Republican" in the days before the election, reflecting a tightening race. The 2nd District, which includes Atlantic City and much of the southern Jersey Shore, has been a battleground in recent cycles, with Van Drew's party switch and subsequent alignment with Trump reshaping its political dynamics.
Van Drew first entered the House as a Democrat in 2019, but broke with his party over the impeachment of President Trump, voting against it and then joining the GOP in 2020. He won re-election as a Republican in 2020 and 2022, but faced a tougher challenge this year as Democrats targeted the seat.
Mullock's victory adds to a broader Democratic wave in the region, as the party has made gains in several competitive House races. The result also underscores the ongoing realignment of South Jersey politics, where Trump's influence and Van Drew's loyalty to him were central issues.
With this win, Democrats continue to build on their momentum in the House, following other key victories across the country. The party has already flipped several seats, including a win in Arizona's 6th District and a pickup in Utah's 1st District, as they seek to secure a majority.
Mullock, a local official with a focus on coastal issues and infrastructure, will now represent a district that has seen significant economic shifts, including the decline of the casino industry in Atlantic City and the impacts of climate change on shore communities. His campaign emphasized bipartisanship and a pragmatic approach to governance, contrasting with Van Drew's more partisan record.
The concession by Van Drew marks the end of a notable political career that saw him go from Democratic state legislator to Republican congressman aligned with Trump. His defeat is a setback for the GOP's efforts to hold onto swing districts, and it highlights the challenges facing Republican incumbents in suburban and exurban areas where Trump's brand remains divisive.
As the dust settles on this race, political analysts will be watching to see how Mullock's victory influences the balance of power in the House and whether it signals a broader trend in the 2024 election cycle. For now, the 2nd District of New Jersey will have a new representative, one who will take office with the promise of addressing local concerns and bridging divides.
