Who Is Running in New York Congressional District 17th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Michael Lawler
(Incumbent)Economy
HighMichael Lawler advocates for reducing the tax burden on residents by fixing the state school-aid formula and having the state fully fund the Medicaid program. He also supported historic tax relief for middle and working-class families and worked on delivering SALT (State and Local Tax) relief. Furthermore, he aims to attract jobs and investment to Rockland County by promoting the educated workforce, proximity to the city, and cost-effective commercial properties.
Immigration
HighMichael Lawler advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, stating that mass deportation is not realistic and urging a bipartisan approach. He voted yes on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America Act), which requires stricter voter identification including proof of citizenship and sharing voter rolls with the Department of Homeland Security. Lawler believes a new national immigration policy should address economic needs and offer dignity while upholding the rule of law.
Healthcare
HighMichael Lawler voted in January 2026 to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, emphasizing a commitment to bipartisan solutions for healthcare affordability. He criticized his party's inaction on expiring ACA subsidies, calling it "unacceptable" to allow premiums to skyrocket without a plan for reforms. Lawler advocates for strengthening rural healthcare, lowering prescription drug prices, and expanding health savings accounts to ensure access to care at a lower rate.
Democratic Candidate
No Democratic candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Michael Lawler |
|---|---|
| Economy | Michael Lawler advocates for reducing the tax burden on residents by fixing the state school-aid formula and having the state fully fund the Medicaid program. He also supported historic tax relief for middle and working-class families and worked on delivering SALT (State and Local Tax) relief. Furthermore, he aims to attract jobs and investment to Rockland County by promoting the educated workforce, proximity to the city, and cost-effective commercial properties. High |
| Immigration | Michael Lawler advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, stating that mass deportation is not realistic and urging a bipartisan approach. He voted yes on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America Act), which requires stricter voter identification including proof of citizenship and sharing voter rolls with the Department of Homeland Security. Lawler believes a new national immigration policy should address economic needs and offer dignity while upholding the rule of law. High |
| Healthcare | Michael Lawler voted in January 2026 to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, emphasizing a commitment to bipartisan solutions for healthcare affordability. He criticized his party's inaction on expiring ACA subsidies, calling it "unacceptable" to allow premiums to skyrocket without a plan for reforms. Lawler advocates for strengthening rural healthcare, lowering prescription drug prices, and expanding health savings accounts to ensure access to care at a lower rate. High |
| Climate & Energy | Michael Lawler supported legislation in the State Assembly to improve water quality, crack down on pollutants, and protect open spaces. In Congress, he advocates for an "all-of-the-above" energy policy, including clean natural gas, aiming to balance environmental protection with affordable energy costs. He introduced the Cool Corridors Act of 2025 to promote investments in tree canopies and shade infrastructure, emphasizing public-private partnerships and wise infrastructure investment to address weather and climate issues. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Michael Lawler opposes national abortion bans and supports maintaining access to mifepristone and contraception, including IVF. He has stated he believes in exceptions for rape, incest, and to protect the life and health of the mother. However, he personally opposes abortion and believes a 13-week limit is reasonable, also voting for measures that restrict abortion access for servicemembers and weaken Title IX protections. He has an "B" rating from SBA Pro-Life America. High |
| Foreign Policy | Michael Lawler voted for the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act to strengthen national defense, provide a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, and invest in military families. He supported an appropriations package to strengthen national security and fulfill commitments to allies. He also introduced the Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act and voted to exclude China from international financial organizations due to its threat to Taiwan. High |
| Education | Michael Lawler supports increasing funding and improving standards for education, viewing it as a fundamental right for every child. He voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which improved education benefits for servicemembers. He also supported the Consolidated Appropriations Act, allocating funds to federal departments including education, and voted for the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act. Lawler advocates for school choice and parent empowerment in curriculum decisions. High |
| Gun Policy | Congressman Michael Lawler supports the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans to keep and bear arms for defense, recreation, and sport. He led the fight to extend the Undetectable Firearms Act to prevent firearms in public venues. Lawler advocates for red flag laws that include due process, and supports prohibiting gun purchases by those with outstanding warrants, while increasing penalties for threats of mass harm. Low |
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