Republican Congressman Mike Lawler and Democratic challenger Cait Conley clashed over immigration, the economy, artificial intelligence and their records Monday night in the first general-election debate of a closely watched race for New York’s 17th Congressional District.
Both campaigns declared their candidate the winner afterward.
Lawler, seeking a third term, emphasized his record in Congress and said he has supported President Donald Trump when he agrees with him while breaking with the president on some issues.
Conley, an Army combat veteran and former national security official, accused Lawler of voting with Trump too frequently and said she would focus on lowering costs, combating corruption and helping working families.
The candidates also disagreed over immigration policy after Tom and Jessica Gorman of Yorktown asked about New York’s limits on cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. The Gormans’ 18-year-old daughter, Sheridan, was killed in Chicago in March.
Lawler said he opposed the state law and supported federal legislation to end sanctuary jurisdictions. Conley discussed immigration enforcement and public safety but did not directly answer the couple’s yes-or-no questions.
Lawler also questioned Conley about compensation she received from two artificial intelligence companies. Conley defended her professional background and military service.
The candidates sparred over their records involving Trump. Conley cited Lawler’s support for the president and characterized his voting record as 100% aligned with Trump. Lawler disputed that characterization, pointing to issues on which he has disagreed with the president, including artificial intelligence policy.
Conley also criticized Lawler over taxes, health care and corporate interests, while Lawler pointed to legislation, he said he helped pass and constituent services. Lawler’s campaign called the debate a “total victory,” while Conley’s campaign said she “decisively” won and demonstrated a contrast between the candidates.
The race is among the most closely watched House contests in the country as both parties compete for control of Congress. Lawler won reelection in 2024 with 50.2% of the vote to Democrat Mondaire Jones’ 44.1%. The 17th District includes all or parts of Rockland, Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties.
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