New York State congressional races saw an unprecedented $308 million in total spending during the 2026 midterm campaign, with the battle for the 17th congressional district in the Hudson Valley accounting for $64 million of that sum.
This figure surpasses previous records, including the $38.4 million spent in the 19th Congressional District in 2024, which was previously the most expensive general election race on record. The heightened spending in the 17th district reflects a contentious Democratic primary and a closely fought general election.
Within the 17th district, approximately $22 million was spent during the Democratic primary. Outside groups contributed an additional $30 million to the swing district, which encompasses parts of Westchester, Dutchess, Rockland, and Putnam counties. Cait Conley ultimately won the general election in this district, unseating two-term incumbent Rep. Mike Lawler.
Other high-profile races also saw significant financial investment. The race to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler in the 12th Congressional District, a Manhattan district, saw Democrats and their supporting groups spend $56 million. A substantial portion, $43 million, was funded by super PACs like Jobs and Democracy PAC and Think Big, which received heavy backing from artificial intelligence firms and their leaders.
Following in expenditure was the race for the 21st District, seeking to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik. This contest involved a competitive primary between eventual winner Anthony Constantino and GOP Assemblyman Robert Smullen. Constantino, CEO of a sticker and decal manufacturing business, personally invested $17 million into his campaign, while the House Majority PAC made a seven-figure ad buy.
The fourth most expensive race in New York was for the 14th congressional district, which saw $26 million spent, despite incumbent Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez not facing a competitive challenge. Ocasio-Cortez is reportedly considering presidential or Senate bids in 2028.
Rounding out the top five was the contest in New York's 3rd congressional district, a race between Rep. Tom Suozzi and former Assemblyman Mike LiPetri, with a combined spending of $20 million.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who also did not face a competitive race, spent $19 million. The seventh most expensive race was in District 13, where Darializa Aviles-Chevalier defeated Rep. Adriano Espaillat, with approximately $15.4 million spent.