A new face from the Republican Party has entered the race in New York's 18th Congressional District. Jackie Auringer, 29, has announced her candidacy to replace two-term incumbent Representative Pat Ryan in the Hudson Valley.
Auringer argues that her hometown is losing its vitality as the rising cost of living forces many families to leave. She accuses Ryan of failing to represent local voters, mirroring other campaigns challenging incumbents taking place across the United States.
Auringer works as a project manager and accountant in her family's construction business. Previously, she was involved in politics in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis holds significant influence, and served in leadership roles within local Republican organizations. She emphasizes that her experience in the construction industry helps her handle practical issues and deliver concrete results.
Her campaign is expected to receive support from a national network of donors and activists that Auringer previously built.
On the other hand, Ryan—44, a military veteran and West Point graduate—enters the race with a significant financial advantage. Federal Election Commission data shows his campaign has approximately $2.5 million in cash on hand, an overwhelming figure reminiscent of recent financial controversies involving Representative Eric Swalwell in California.
According to the Cook Political Report, the 18th District remains strongly Democratic-leaning. Ryan won a clear victory in the 2024 election against Republican candidate Alison Esposito, while a Republican lawyer is also running to challenge Democratic dominance in the Manhattan area.
This congressional district includes Orange, Dutchess, and parts of Ulster County.
