Haverstraw, NY – On May 19, 2024, Congressman Mike Lawler officially announced his campaign for reelection to the 17th Congressional District seat. The announcement took place at the Elks Lodge in the Village of Haverstraw, with over 200 supporters in attendance. The event was emceed by George Hoehmann, who emphasized the importance of strong leadership in challenging times, praising Lawler’s accomplishments and broad support across political parties.
Hoehmann began the event by highlighting the critical state of the country and the need for leaders like Lawler. “It’s an honor and I think a testament to the work of Congressman Lawler that there are so many people here,” he said, indicating a broad base of support.
A somber moment was observed after the invocation when Hoehmann requested a moment of silence for two fallen veterans, including Clarkstown Councilman Mark Woods, a retired NYPD officer and military veteran who passed away unexpectedly.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem, Hoehmann praised Lawler’s hard work and achievements, setting the stage for the first speaker, Orangetown Town Supervisor Theresa Kenny. Kenny, the first elected female supervisor in Rockland County, shared personal anecdotes about Lawler and commended his rapid rise from Deputy Town Supervisor to U.S. Congressman. She highlighted his bipartisan approach and commitment to Republican principles, noting his ranking as the fourth most bipartisan member of Congress by a Georgetown University index.
Assemblyman Matt Slater from the 94th District echoed these sentiments, pointing out the diverse coalition supporting Lawler, including law enforcement, veterans, labor, and business leaders. Slater emphasized the importance of this election as a choice for the future of the state and country.
County Executive Ed Day, the lead Republican at the county level, also spoke highly of Lawler’s impact. Day recounted Lawler’s accomplishments in securing significant funding for local infrastructure and his responsiveness to constituents. He stressed the importance of Lawler’s continued presence in Congress, citing his integrity, determination, and effectiveness.
When Congressman Lawler took the stage, he opened with a light-hearted joke before expressing his dedication to public service and restoring faith in government. He criticized the current political climate in Washington and called for a return to constructive governance. “Too many in Washington today from both parties would rather blow things up than move the nation forward,” he remarked.
Lawler’s speech was met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, solidifying the event’s tone of optimism and determination. As the campaign moves forward, Lawler’s supporters are expected to rally around his message of bipartisan cooperation and effective leadership.
For more details on the event, you can view highlights from the speeches here.