Republican incumbent Mike Lawler is facing off against Democrat challenger Mondaire Jones in the race for New York’s 17th Congressional District seat in the Hudson Valley. The district covers Rockland and Putnam counties, as well as parts of Westchester and Dutchess. The debate between the two candidates was aired on News 12 Westchester just before the upcoming general election on Nov. 5, which will also determine control of the U.S. House of Representatives. The moderator for the debate was News 12’s lead reporter, Tara Rosenblum.
According to an Emerson Collge/PIX11 TV survey, Lawler is currently leading Jones by a slim margin of 45 percent to 44 percent. The candidates presented their opening statements during the debate, with Jones focusing on issues like women’s reproductive rights, Social Security, and Medicare, while Lawler emphasized his opposition to socialism, congestion pricing, and government-run healthcare.
The candidates also discussed their views on important topics like climate change, border security, and public safety. Jones highlighted his support for the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and investment in clean energy, while Lawler emphasized his efforts to protect the environment and oppose open borders and amnesty for criminal illegal immigrants.
The debate also touched on financial aspects, with FEC data showing Jones leading in cash on hand, but Lawler holding a slight edge in contributions. Both candidates engaged in heated exchanges, with Lawler accusing Jones of being a socialist and extremist, and Jones calling out Lawler for alleged racist behavior in the past.
Overall, the race between Lawler and Jones is seen as a crucial battleground that could impact the balance of power in Washington, D.C. for years to come. Please rewrite this sentence.
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