Cait Conley (D) defeated Beth Davidson (D), Effie Phillips-Staley (D), and two other candidates in the Democratic primary for New York's 17th Congressional District on June 23, 2026. As of April 2026, Conley, Davidson, and Phillips-Staley led in endorsements, fundraising, and local media attention.
Decision Desk HQ and Roll Call both included incumbent Michael Lawler (R) on their lists of most vulnerable U.S. House incumbents in 2026. Lawler defeated incumbent Sean Maloney (D) 50.3%–49.7% in 2022 and challenger Mondaire Jones (D) 52.1%–45.8% in 2024. The Peekskill Herald quoted Pace University professor Stephen Rolandi as saying, "We’re looking at a very close election for control of the House...Michael Lawler’s seat fits in that equation because if the Dems can get that one back they’re probably on their way to a majority in the House." Reporting on Conley, Davidson, and Phillips-Staley appearing at an April 9 candidate forum, The Journal News' Chris McKenna said, "With few sharp policy differences among them, each sought to stand out based on their personal and professional backgrounds and feats in local offices and public service."
Conley was a U.S. Army veteran. Conley served on the National Security Council and at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under President Joe Biden (D). Her campaign website said she had "the courage to do what’s right, the strength to fight and win against Donald Trump and his enablers like Mike Lawler, and the leadership to deliver results on Day One."
