Republicans are protecting a narrow House majority in the 2026 midterms. Democrats would need to a net gain of just three seats to flip the chamber, and Lawler represents one of the three House Republican districts carried by then-Vice President Kamala Harris over Trump in the 2024 election.

Representative Mike Lawler, a Republican representing New York's 17th congressional district, will seek reelection after weeks of speculation he may seek the Republican bid in a potential

Rep. Michael Lawler said he would instead run for reelection in his swing House district. Rep. Elise Stefanik has indicated she may challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul next year.