SouthernWorldwide.com – Peter Oberacker, a Republican state senator in New York backed by former President Donald Trump, has secured the Republican nomination for the crucial House seat in New York’s 19th Congressional District. He will now challenge the incumbent Democratic Representative Josh Riley in the upcoming general election.
This district, which includes areas north of Manhattan, is considered a key battleground for Republicans aiming to reclaim or maintain control of the U.S. House of Representatives. While historically leaning Democratic, the district saw a Republican victory in 2022, highlighting its competitive nature.
Oberacker, who has a background in the food business, has served as a New York state senator since 2021. Throughout his campaign, he has presented himself as a dedicated public servant with a varied professional history.
In a campaign video, Oberacker shared his perspective on public service, stating, “They say there are two things you should never see being made: laws and sausage. Well, I know both. Service has always called me. As a volunteer firefighter and EMT and as a town supervisor and county legislator.”
His candidacy received a significant boost with an endorsement from former President Donald Trump earlier this year. Trump expressed his support by stating, “As your next Congressman, he will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Strengthen our Brave Military/Veterans, Advance Election Integrity and Protect our always-under-siege Second Amendment.”
Oberacker’s legislative work in the state Senate has largely concentrated on issues vital to rural communities, including agriculture, farms, and the cost of energy for ratepayers. He has been a proponent of legislation aimed at preventing retroactive billing for businesses and prohibiting the use of taxpayer funds to cover corporate losses. Additionally, he has been vocal in advocating for investigations into the rising costs of utilities.
He elaborated on his legislative focus, writing on Facebook, “Results matter. That’s why I have introduced several bills as a part of my utility ratepayer bill of rights. This legislation requires transparency and accountability from the utilities and gives power back to people — where it belongs.”
According to records from the Federal Election Commission, Oberacker has successfully raised nearly one million dollars for his campaign.
With the primary election concluded, Oberacker is now set to face off against Representative Josh Riley in the general election on November 3rd.
Riley, currently serving his first term in the House, secured his seat in the 2024 election with a narrow victory, winning 51.1% of the vote against Republican challenger Marcus Molinaro, who received 48.8%.
