Jared Golden Endorses Mike Lawler for Re-election

Outgoing Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, has declared his support for Republican Congressman Mike Lawler of New York. Golden’s endorsement comes in an opinion piece ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Golden emphasized the importance of electing members of Congress who focus on practical work rather than showmanship. He highlighted Lawler as a valuable partner and friend to those in industries such as fishing, which he will not directly serve. Golden shared his hope that Lawler would continue his work, urging voters to support candidates who exemplify bipartisan cooperation in passing legislation.

The Congress we get is the one we elect, and the country needs fewer members who treat the job as a stage and more who treat it as work. In New York’s Hudson Valley this fall, that is the choice on the ballot. Mike Lawler has been a true partner to me and a friend to fishing families he will never represent. I strongly back him, and I hope voters send him back to work. Wherever you live, find the members who pass laws with the other party, and keep them.

Golden has been a House member since early 2019. He announced last year that he would not seek re-election in 2026. Lawler, serving since early 2023, is now running for re-election.

Lawler expressed his gratitude for Golden’s endorsement, noting their successful bipartisan efforts in the House. Lawler emphasized that prioritizing the needs of people over party affiliation benefits the country.

Lawler faces Democratic candidate Cait Conley in the upcoming election for New York’s 17th Congressional District. Conley, a combat veteran, has held positions as the director for counterterrorism on the National Security Council and worked with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg recently campaigned alongside Conley, voicing his support in a social media post. He described himself as being proudly in Conley’s corner.