State Senator Peter Oberacker, who represents New York’s 51st District, officially threw his hat in the ring for New York’s 19th Congressional District Tuesday at Holiday Mountain in Bridgeville.
Surrounded by local Republican leaders, including Sullivan County GOP Chair Rob Dougherty, Congressman Mark Lawler of the 17th District, and Assemblyman Chris Tague of the 102nd District, Oberacker called the 19th “one of the most important districts in the state.”
Family, Freedom, and Opportunity
Oberacker tied his campaign to personal values and future generations.
“The greatest title I’ll ever hold isn’t senator and it ain’t congressman. It’s pop pop. And that’s why I’m running,” he said.
“Because I want my grandkids and yours to have the same opportunities that I had. To grow up in safe communities, to live in the country that protects our freedoms, and to stay here in upstate New York to build their lives. Instead of feeling forced like they have to leave. They have the opportunity to live and achieve the true American dream. That’s the fight, that’s the mission, and that’s why I’m asking for your support, for your faith, and for your vote.”
“Because soil is our… And together, rooted in that same soil, we can build a stronger New York and a stronger America,” he added.
Riley Campaign Responds
The 19th District seat is currently held by Democrat Josh Riley, who defeated Republican Mark Molinaro in 2024. Earlier Tuesday, Riley’s campaign manager criticized Oberacker as an Albany insider with close ties to corporate interests, promising a head-to-head comparison if Oberacker wins the Republican nomination.
Oberacker brushed off the statement. “Well, I mean you know I haven’t seen him around so I’m not really too worried about that. They can say whatever they want. In reality, I think my record stands for itself, you know, in here. Work work the district, people know me and I think people will vote for me in that capacity. So not worried about what anybody says.”
Image: New York State Senator Peter Oberacker. (Credit: nysenate.gov)