Most dramatic moments from Rep Mike Lawler's fiery debate against Dem Cait Conley in battle for House control

Representative Mike Lawler, a New York Republican seeking a third term, and Democratic challenger Cait Conley, a military veteran, met Wednesday night in a one-hour televised debate on PIX11 News. The contest in New York's 17th Congressional District is among the last genuinely competitive House races, and its outcome could help determine which party holds the chamber during the second half of President Donald Trump's term, according to Fox News.

The sharpest exchange came over immigration enforcement. Moderator Dan Mannarino asked what should be done about Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who break their own rules, citing the recent shooting of an undocumented man in the Bronx during an operation, with the man's young child inside the vehicle. Lawler responded by highlighting the man's criminal record and blaming Democratic leaders in the state for sanctuary policies and for bail changes under Governor Kathy Hochul. He also charged that Conley backs those approaches.

Mannarino pressed twice, noting that Lawler had not addressed the question about agent discipline. Lawler said he understood it, then accused the press of dwelling on a gang member who endangered others when he wanted to focus on keeping neighborhoods safe.

Summarized by PolitiKool from Fox News’s reporting. Read the full story at Fox News →