NY-21: Why Democrats think they actually have a shot at Stefanik's seat

[RandySF]

Last edited Wed May 20, 2026, 06:31 AM - Edit history (1)

Democrats have only held a North Country congressional seat for five years since the Civil War, but a homegrown candidate, Republican infighting and President Donald Trump’s flagging popularity are giving them hope for another shot.

Party officials said at the recent spring meeting of the Democratic Rural Conference that they’re adding candidate Blake Gendebien to a statewide coordinated campaign designed to expand the party’s congressional delegation.

Participation in the coordinated campaign means Gov. Kathy Hochul will direct state party resources to open offices and hire canvassers in the district, said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand during the meeting in Saratoga Springs. Two years ago, the coordinated campaign helped defend vulnerable Democratic incumbents and elect U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen on Long Island.

Gillibrand said it would give Gendebien, a dairy farmer, a major boost. She met privately with the candidate and his wife and walked away thinking of her own long-shot bid two decades ago that ousted John Sweeney from his seat in New York’s 20th District.



https://gothamist.com/news/why-democrats-think-they-actually-have-a-shot-at-stefaniks-seat