Rep. Golden Endorses Rep. Lawler for Re-election

Outgoing Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, has endorsed his colleague, Republican Representative Mike Lawler from New York, for re-election. This endorsement comes as an opinion piece ahead of the 2026 midterm election.

Golden emphasized the need for Congress members who prioritize tasks over performance. He stated, “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.” Golden added his strong support for Lawler, urging voters to re-elect him. He encouraged constituents to back those who collaborate across party lines.

Find the members who pass laws with the other party, and keep them, Golden advised.

Golden has served in the House of Representatives since 2019 but announced his decision not to seek re-election in 2026. Meanwhile, Lawler, who began his tenure in 2023, is campaigning for another term.

Lawler expressed his gratitude for Golden’s endorsement in a post, saying, “It’s an honor and a privilege to accept the endorsement of my friend, Democratic Congressman Jared Golden.” He further explained the collaboration between them despite party differences. “While we are from different parties and different states, Jared and I have worked during our time together in the House to find common ground on issues that matter both to us and our constituents. We share a firm belief that what’s best for the people should come before one’s party,” Lawler said.

Lawler is up against Democratic candidate Cait Conley for New York’s 17th Congressional District. Conley, a combat veteran and former director at the National Security Council for counterterrorism, has also worked with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has shown support for Conley, attending a rally in her favor. He publicly endorsed her in a social media post saying he was “proud to be in Cait’s corner.”