Senator Dan Stec seeks congressional seat

ALBANY, New York (WWNY) - State Senator Dan Stec wants to add Congressman to his resume.

It’s expected Congresswoman Elise Stefanik will become the next U.N. Ambassador, which will create a special election for the 21st Congressional District. State Senator Dan Stec wants the chance to go to Washington.

“At the end of the day, it’s about representing the district, and for the last 12 years in Albany, I know what it means to represent the district and if I can do that in Albany I am certain I can do that in Washinton,” said Stec.

While many names may come forward, Stec feels he’s the best candidate because the state senate seat he is in right now, the 45th district, entirely resides within the boundaries of the 21st Congressional District.

He feels he can bring voters out to vote for him.

“My argument is that I am the most electable. If we are concerned about holding this seat and the Republican majority in the House of Representatives, you want to put your most likely-to-win candidate forward and no one can compare the numbers like I do with how much of the district I already represent,” said Stec.

Stec says in November’s election for State Senate he got 104,000 votes and if he goes up against a Democrat who also has served in the state, Stec says he feels his record will get him the win.

“I am proud of my track record, my resume, and my principles. I don’t have any votes that I am embarrassed that I would have to explain like maybe someone from the other side of the aisle I have worked with would have to explain,” said Stec.

Stefanik is likely getting confirmed as U.N. Ambassador in late January.

After that, Governor Hochul has 10 days to establish when a special election would happen for the 21st Congressional District. That election would be within 3 months.

Look for this race to put someone new in Congress by April.

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