A candidate vying for Elise Stefanik’s congressional seat in a special election says he’s both surprised and relieved the White House pulled her nomination for U-N ambassador. Democrat Dylan Hewitt was one of four finalists in the running to replace Stefanik, but party leaders ultimately chose Blake Gendebien.
In a tweet, Hewitt says he’s glad North County Democrat and Republican voters will select the next representative, rather than allowing candidates chosen in backroom deals. In a social media post, Gendebien tweeted that he’s committed to representing the community, regardless of when the election is.
Republican party leaders had not yet chosen their nominee. The decision to keep Stefanik in congress ends months of jockeying by numerous candidates with hopes to succeed her...at least for now.