Race to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik in upstate New York heats up with new challenger
New York State Sen. Dan Stec, a Republican and Navy veteran, has officially announced his candidacy for Congress in New York’s 21st Congressional District. Stec is running to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik, who has been selected by President-elect Donald Trump to become the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. A special election will be held once Stefanik vacates her seat in the House of Representatives.
In a recent interview with WWNY, Stec emphasized the importance of representing the district effectively, drawing on his 12 years of experience in Albany. He expressed confidence in his ability to transition from state politics to the national stage, stating, “if I can do that in Albany, I am certain I can do that in Washington.”
As a North Country native whose state senate district overlaps with Stefanik’s congressional district, Stec believes he is the most electable candidate for Republicans due to his high name recognition within the region. He highlighted his strong track record in the New York legislature and the significant number of votes he received in his previous election, positioning himself as the candidate best suited to secure a victory for the GOP in the upcoming special election.
Stec faces competition from Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino, who has also thrown his hat into the ring for the Republican nomination. Constantino, a political outsider known for his bold \”Vote for Trump\” sign, has pledged $2.6 million to fund his campaign. Other potential Republican candidates include state Assemblymen Robert Smullen and Christopher Tague, as well as Rensselaer County Executive Steven McLaughlin.
On the Democratic side, possible candidates include Assemblyman Billy Jones and past challengers to Stefanik such as Matt Castelli and Paula Collins. The nominees for both parties will be chosen by party chairs in the district, with no traditional primary taking place.
As the race for New York’s 21st Congressional District heats up, all eyes will be on the candidates vying to fill the seat left vacant by Rep. Elise Stefanik. With a diverse field of contenders and a pivotal special election on the horizon, the political landscape in North Country is set for a period of intense competition and strategic maneuvering.
