Democratic U.S. congressional candidate Cait Conley made headlines during her appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union.” She stated that she would not campaign alongside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani or Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. However, she did not directly address whether Democrats should distance themselves from the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The influence of the DSA in New York has emerged as a critical issue in her attempt to unseat Republican Rep. Mike Lawler.
Anchor Dana Bash questioned Conley about her willingness to campaign with members of the Democratic Party’s socialist wing. In response, Conley emphasized her commitment to engaging directly with voters in the New York 17th Congressional District, stating, “No, Dana, I‘m good up here making the case to the voters.” She avoided a direct answer about rejecting the DSA, choosing instead to discuss political divisions.
“What we have to focus on is how do we bring people together, and right now, what I see coming out of Washington is corruption on both sides, extremism on both sides that is fueling hate, fueling dysfunction,” Conley said.
Lawler’s campaign manager, Ciro Riccardi, responded by suggesting that Conley’s refusal to reject the DSA is disqualifying, and the campaign has criticized her for reportedly evading debate challenges. Riccardi stated, “Now everyone is seeing why Cait Conley has ducked and dodged debate challenges with Congressman Lawler. She’s incapable of answering direct questions without showing her true colors.”
Conley, a 16-year Army veteran, won her Democratic primary and now faces Lawler in a significant contest in Hudson Valley, which could influence control of the House. Her campaign has agreed to two debates on local networks after Lawler proposed six debates. The candidate’s relationship with the Democratic Party’s progressive wing remains a focal point in the race, particularly after Ocasio-Cortez offered her congratulations following her primary victory.
Rep. Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y., has urged the Democratic Party to confront the DSA’s influence, expressing firm opposition to their ideas. Suozzi stated to Fox News Digital that there is little support within the party for the policies proposed by the DSA, which include abolishing ICE and police departments.
Fox News Digital sought comment from Conley but did not receive an immediate response. The race continues to draw attention due to its potential impact on the national political landscape.
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