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Blake Gendebien, a dairy farmer from North County, formally announced his intention to run for the Democratic nomination in the upcoming special election for New York state’s 21st Congressional District.

The special election will replace Rep. Elise Stefanik once she resigns from her seat in the United States House of Representatives. After winning the seat in November, Stefanik, a Republican, was nominated to serve as President-elect Donald Trump’s ambassador to the United Nations.

Gendebien joins Army Lt. Col. Steven Holden, who launched an exploratory committee last week, and Stefanik’s opponent in November, Paula Collins, as potential Democratic candidates.

Anthony Constantino is a Republican candidate for the seat, according to Politico. Otto Miller has also confirmed his interest in running, according to the Adirondack Daily Enterprise. Miller said he would consider a third-party campaign if he does not receive the Republican nomination.

Gendebien is currently the vice chair of the Cooperative Board of Agri-Mark and has served on the board for the last decade, according to his announcement release. He and his wife also founded The Jules of Life Foundation, which provides resources for North County families experiencing pediatric cancer.

Once Stefanik officially vacates her seat, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul will open a 10-day window to call for a special election, according to New York Public Officers Law. The election must then happen within 70 to 80 days after Hochul calls for it.

Published on December 11, 2024 at 7:18 pm

Contact Henry: hdaley@syr.edu