Democrat Pat Ryan won a special election for New York’s 19th congressional district in a campaign that drew national attention ahead of November’s midterm elections.
While Ryan’s focus was on abortion rights, Republican Republican Mark Molinaro tried to run on issues that the Republican Party embraced nationally, such as crime and inflation, so the contest was a national hit. It was considered a pioneer of mood. Ryan’s win is likely to boost Democrats’ hopes that they can retain control of Congress in November despite historical trends, high inflation and President Biden’s low approval ratings.
Ulster County executive Ryan surged late in the race for districts sprawling in the Hudson Valley north of New York City. .
Ryan’s campaign revolved almost entirely around abortion rights. He released Ryan less than an hour after the Supreme Court announced its decision to overturn the Roe v. Wade decision. his first adhighlighting his time in military history before turning to abortion.
“Freedom includes a woman’s right to choose,” Ryan asked. “How can we be a free country if the government tries to control women’s bodies?” I was.
Molinaro’s position on abortion rights is moderate by Republican standards, he said he opposes federal bans and supports exceptions for rape, incest and maternal health.
But Democrats said Molinaro’s refusal to say whether he would respect the states and vote to codify abortion rights at the federal level meant he could not be trusted. He cited his objection to allowing Medicaid funds to be used for procedures. while serving in the state legislatureThey also criticized Molinaro for his appearance with New York Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, who has become one of former President Donald Trump’s strongest supporters in the House.
Republicans tried to make the race a Biden referendum while portraying Ryan as a progressive on criminal justice issues.The National Republican Congressional Committee has committed over $1 million to Ads containing words from Ryan’s narrator: “Hurting cops. Helping criminals.”
The seat became vacant when Democratic Rep. Antonio Delgado, who won the district in 2018, resigned and became New York lieutenant governor.
New York’s 19th borough is an increasingly rare example of a true swing district. Democratic President Barack Obama has run for president twice, in 2008 and again in 2016. He then voted for President Donald Trump before voting for Biden in 2020.
Democrats hope abortion rights will inspire voters in other districts contested this November. Ryan’s victory came after a complete defeat of an anti-abortion vote initiative in Kansas earlier this month.
But regardless of Ryan’s victory, the recent reorganization of New York’s congressional districts means that Ryan only has a few months to secure a seat in Congress. In November, Ryan is set to run for his new Democratic-leaning 18th district, where his home is, but Ryan is expected to contest his new 19th district, with both men set to run next year. may serve in the House of Representatives. .