Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican representing New York's 17th Congressional District, has received endorsements from 11 law enforcement unions and police organizations. The backing comes as Lawler faces a competitive re-election bid against Democrat Cait Conley.
The endorsements, announced Monday, include organizations covering New York City, New York state, and local departments. Among them are the Police Conference of New York, Rockland County PBA, Port Authority PBA, and the New York State Fraternal Order of Police, as well as the Haverstraw and Carmel PBAs.
Mike O’Mara, president of the Police Conference of New York and a constituent of the district, stated that Lawler prioritizes families over felons and takes his job seriously. He added that Lawler represents the district with "vigor and common sense" in protecting families, schools, and police officers.
Sean O’Connor, president of the Rockland County PBA, said the union's decision was based on Lawler's record in Congress and as a former state Assemblyman, rather than party affiliation. "We proudly give Congressman Lawler our endorsement," O’Connor stated.
Lawler, a two-term congressman, emphasized his commitment to supporting law enforcement. "I will always back the blue, and I will always stand with the men and women of law enforcement," Lawler said during an event in Haverstraw. He highlighted that areas within his district, including Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties, remain among the safest in the nation, attributing this to the support of law enforcement and voter decisions.
The race in New York's 17th Congressional District is considered a toss-up by The Cook Political Report, making it one of the most closely watched contests in the state. Recent polling indicates a statistically even race between Lawler and Conley, a former intelligence official, U.S. Army combat veteran, and West Point graduate. A spokesperson for Conley's campaign declined to comment on the endorsements.