Cait Conley, a former national security adviser and Army veteran, won the Democratic primary in New York’s 17th Congressional District on Tuesday, setting up a general election showdown against Republican Rep. Mike Lawler. Conley secured 51.5% of the vote, defeating Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson, who placed second with 28.9%. Effie Phillips-Staley, a progressive candidate, finished third with 15.6%. The district, which includes parts of Rockland, Putnam, Westchester, and Dutchess counties, is a key battleground in the fight for House control.
Conley, who served on the National Security Council under President Joe Biden, campaigned on lowering housing costs, expanding affordable healthcare, and increasing childcare access. She also emphasized her military service and national security experience. Davidson, who highlighted her Jewish identity and ties to the Orthodox Jewish community, positioned herself as a pro-Israel Democrat while opposing some actions by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Phillips-Staley, the most progressive candidate, described Israel as an apartheid state and accused it of committing genocide in Gaza.
The general election will pit Conley against Lawler, a staunchly pro-Israel Republican who has held the seat since 2023. Lawler has criticized Conley over her role in the Biden administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal. The race is expected to draw significant national attention and funding, as both parties view the district as critical in the battle for House control.