Retiring centrist Democrat backs Mike Lawler in rare cross-aisle endorsement
Retiring Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) is throwing his weight behind Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), a rare show of bipartisan support between sitting lawmakers.
TL;DR
- Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) endorsed Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) in an op-ed, citing Lawler's cosponsorship of a bill supporting Maine lobstermen.
- Golden, who represents a red-leaning seat, has bucked his party multiple times this month, including on procedural votes.
- Democratic leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries, dismissed the endorsement, vowing to defeat Lawler and questioning Golden's motives.
- Golden stated his primary loyalty is to his constituents, then his state, then the country, and lastly the Democratic Party.
- Lawler thanked Golden for his support, calling him a 'servant leader' and highlighting their history of bipartisan compromise.