Hudson Valley, NY — In a closely contested battle that drew national attention, Republican incumbent Mike Lawler emerged victorious tonight over former Democratic Representative Mondaire Jones in New York’s 17th Congressional District.

The race, pivotal in determining control of the U.S. House of Representatives, ended with Lawler securing a second term.

The redrawn 17th District, encompassing Rockland and Putnam counties along with parts of Westchester and Dutchess, was a major battleground. Lawler and Jones, both experienced politicians, engaged in an intense campaign centered on contrasting visions for the district’s future.

Lawler, who first won the seat in 2022 by narrowly defeating then-Democratic Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, ran on a platform prioritizing border security and combating inflation. He highlighted his bipartisan legislative achievements and the local projects funded through grants he helped secure. His campaign painted Jones as a far-left progressive, tying him to past calls to “defund the police” and warning voters of his potential alignment with more extreme Democratic positions.

Jones, attempting to reclaim a seat in Congress after his previous district was redrawn, sought to present himself as a centrist. He emphasized his support for increased police funding and border security while attacking Lawler’s positions on abortion and his support for former President Donald Trump. Jones warned that Lawler would be a reliable vote for Trump’s agenda if re-elected.

A key factor in Lawler’s victory was his strong support among Rockland County’s large frum and specifically Chassidishe communities, which remained a decisive bloc. Despite Jones’ previous representation of the district’s constituents, he was unable to erode Lawler’s solid base of support in these communities.

The race was one of the most expensive in the nation, with nearly $41 million spent, including $27 million from outside groups on advertisements, mailers, and other campaign efforts.

{Matzav.com}