19th Congressional race sees over $26 million spent
Molinaro and Riley battle in New York's costliest congressional race
More than $26 million has been poured into the 19th Congressional District race between Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro and Democrat Josh Riley, making it the most expensive in New York and the seventh most expensive nationwide. Molinaro, a first-term congressman who narrowly defeated Riley in 2022, commented on the significant spending during a recent event, describing it as nearly “obscene.”
Molinaro expressed his frustration at the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce’s candidates forum, urging the audience to look beyond the extensive TV and digital ads and mailers. He highlighted the excessive spending from both sides to promote their candidates.
Disclosure reports from OpenSecrets reveal that Molinaro’s campaign, along with outside groups such as Super PACs and non-profits, has spent approximately $12 million. In contrast, Riley’s campaign and supporting outside groups have spent around $14 million. In 2022, total spending by both sides was just under $20 million, split almost evenly.
Polling got it wrong two years ago… The news had Riley leading by 5 points. Four days later, I won.
We will win AGAIN because I put Upstate New Yorkers FIRST while Josh Riley wants to keep giving taxpayer funded perks to illegal immigrants. pic.twitter.com/QCohycW3Rq
— Marc Molinaro #NY19 🇺🇸 (@marcmolinaro) October 22, 2024
Recent polls indicate the district remains highly competitive, with the previous race decided by a margin of about 4,500 votes. The intense nature of the rematch has led the candidates to adjust their campaign strategies, with Molinaro shifting his stance to appeal more to the Republican base.
Voters have noticed changes in Molinaro’s approach compared to his 2018 gubernatorial run. Paul Bombard, a North Greenbush resident, observed that Molinaro is now more direct and assertive, a quality he found lacking when Molinaro ran against former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Bombard, a former Democrat who voted for Donald Trump in 2016, shared his views at a recent rally in Rensselaer County. Molinaro introduced North Country Rep. Elise Stefanik, the third-ranking Republican in the House, who defended his loyalty to the GOP and its 2024 presidential candidate.
Speaking to reporters, Stefanik affirmed that Molinaro supports Trump, and Trump supports Molinaro. Although Molinaro didn’t vote for Trump in 2016, he now aligns himself with the former president’s policies, particularly on border security and national safety.
Molinaro’s current rhetoric contrasts sharply with his previous cycle’s messaging. After his 2022 victory, he emphasized the need for House leadership to respect representatives in “purple” districts and foster bipartisan cooperation.
In Albany this week, Molinaro stated he doesn’t expect to be friends with Riley after the race concludes. Both campaigns declined to comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How much money has been spent in the 19th Congressional District race?
Over $26 million.
Who are the candidates in the 19th Congressional District race?
Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro and Democrat Josh Riley.
What did Marc Molinaro say about the campaign spending?
He described it as nearly ‘obscene.’
How much did Molinaro’s campaign and supporters spend?
Approximately $12 million.
How has Marc Molinaro’s campaign approach changed?
He is now more direct and assertive.
