Who Is Running in New York Congressional District 26th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Timothy Kennedy
(Incumbent)Economy
HighTimothy Kennedy supports policies to reduce costs for working families and boost local economic development. He criticized former President Trump's economic policies and tariffs, noting they caused "skyrocketing costs" and "squeezed" working families. Kennedy also opposed the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits, stating this creates "immediate economic harm" and raises costs for families. He has secured federal funding for local infrastructure projects like lead water line removal and airport shuttle vans, highlighting their economic impact and job creation.
Immigration
HighCongressman Timothy Kennedy voted against the Homeland Security appropriations bill on January 22, 2026. He expressed concerns that the legislation lacked meaningful reforms to address what he described as unconstitutional abuses by ICE, which he stated have resulted in civil liberties violations. Kennedy supports responsible border security but advocates for an immigration system that upholds the law, protects human dignity, and ensures accountability for government agencies.
Healthcare
HighCongressman Timothy Kennedy criticized Congressional Republicans and the Trump administration for allowing enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits to expire, which he stated would lead to significant increases in healthcare premiums for families. Drawing on his experience as an occupational therapist, Kennedy highlighted the importance of affordable care to prevent delayed treatment and worse patient outcomes. He also expressed concerns over cuts to Medicaid funding and attacks on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), advocating for continued support for students with disabilities and the healthcare workforce.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Timothy Kennedy |
|---|---|
| Economy | Timothy Kennedy supports policies to reduce costs for working families and boost local economic development. He criticized former President Trump's economic policies and tariffs, noting they caused "skyrocketing costs" and "squeezed" working families. Kennedy also opposed the expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits, stating this creates "immediate economic harm" and raises costs for families. He has secured federal funding for local infrastructure projects like lead water line removal and airport shuttle vans, highlighting their economic impact and job creation. High |
| Immigration | Congressman Timothy Kennedy voted against the Homeland Security appropriations bill on January 22, 2026. He expressed concerns that the legislation lacked meaningful reforms to address what he described as unconstitutional abuses by ICE, which he stated have resulted in civil liberties violations. Kennedy supports responsible border security but advocates for an immigration system that upholds the law, protects human dignity, and ensures accountability for government agencies. High |
| Healthcare | Congressman Timothy Kennedy criticized Congressional Republicans and the Trump administration for allowing enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits to expire, which he stated would lead to significant increases in healthcare premiums for families. Drawing on his experience as an occupational therapist, Kennedy highlighted the importance of affordable care to prevent delayed treatment and worse patient outcomes. He also expressed concerns over cuts to Medicaid funding and attacks on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), advocating for continued support for students with disabilities and the healthcare workforce. High |
| Climate & Energy | Timothy Kennedy supports policies to address climate change, cut carbon emissions, and invest in sustainability and green infrastructure, including brownfield revitalization. He also champions clean drinking water initiatives, securing federal funding for lead pipe removal and working to protect the Great Lakes. Kennedy criticizes federal workforce reductions in agencies like FEMA and the National Weather Service, advocating for robust federal investment in disaster readiness and emergency services. High |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Timothy Kennedy has consistently supported reproductive rights and abortion access. He voted against H.R.6918, which would direct funds to anti-abortion centers, and H.R.6914, aimed at spreading disinformation about abortion. He also opposed an amendment to H.R.8070 restricting servicemembers' access to abortion and is a cosponsor of a resolution to block a VA abortion rule. Kennedy has stated his commitment to defending reproductive rights at the national level, having previously worked to codify Roe v. Wade in New York. Medium |
| Foreign Policy | Timothy Kennedy voted against the Homeland Security funding bill in 2026, citing concerns over a lack of accountability within ICE and civil liberties violations. He stated that the legislation offered no meaningful reforms to address these issues. Kennedy emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional rights and human dignity while supporting responsible border security and the essential work of agencies like FEMA and TSA. High |
| Education | Research pending more substantial sources. Low |
| Gun Policy | Congressman Timothy Kennedy advocates for gun control measures, including bans on assault weapons, universal background checks for all firearm purchases, and strengthening red flag laws. He also supports prohibiting the sale of ghost guns and high-capacity ammunition. Kennedy co-led H.R. 8388, the Aaron Salter, Jr., Responsible Body Armor Possession Act, to prevent civilians from purchasing enhanced body armor. He cites the prevention of gun violence as a core reason, noting it as an epidemic and a leading cause of death for American children. Medium |
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