Republicans are protecting a narrow House majority in the 2026 midterms. Democrats would need to a net gain of just three seats to flip the chamber, and Lawler represents one of the three House Republican districts carried by then-Vice President Kamala Harris over Trump in the 2024 election.

Rep. Michael Lawler said he would instead run for reelection in his swing House district. Rep. Elise Stefanik has indicated she may challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul next year.

Representative Mike Lawler, a Republican representing New York's 17th congressional district, will seek reelection after weeks of speculation he may seek the Republican bid in a potential