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The New York Conservative Party has chosen State Senator Dan Stec as its preferred candidate to run for the 21st Congressional District seat. This decision follows the expected confirmation of Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik as the next U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik's confirmation vote is scheduled for Wednesday (April 2), and she is anticipated to resign from her congressional seat soon after.
Stec, who represents a Senate district within the 21st Congressional boundaries, previously served in the state Assembly. He is favored by the Conservative Party, which often collaborates with the Republican Party in New York. The party has also expressed openness to supporting other potential candidates, such as Liz Joy or Chris Tague, but Stec remains their top choice.
Once Stefanik resigns, Governor Kathy Hochul will have 10 days to call a special election, which must occur between 70 and 80 days after being called, likely setting the election for early July. The Democrats have already nominated Blake Gendebien, a farmer from Ogdensburg, as their candidate for the upcoming election.
The Republican Party has not yet finalized its candidate selection, with Stec among several names under consideration. The list includes notable figures such as state Assemblyman Chris Tague and former congressional candidate Liz Joy. As reported by Yahoo News, the Conservative Party hopes to work with the GOP to advance one of these candidates.
Stefanik's confirmation has been delayed due to tight margins in the House, but her exit will trigger the special election process. As Times Union notes, the confirmation is expected to proceed smoothly following two special elections in Florida, which are likely to increase the Republican majority in the House.