Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) has announced he will seek reelection and will not challenge New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, in 2026.
The Republican represents a suburban area of New York City in District 17, and has been viewed as a strong potential challenger to Hochul. However, another House Republican, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), has also reportedly been considering a gubernatorial run.
Lawler made the announcement in a July 23 post on X, saying that it was the “greatest honor” of his life to serve the Hudson Valley, and while he thinks Hochul “must be defeated,” he would not be the one taking her on....
