John,

I knew from the results in 2022 that this race would be an uphill battle, but with American democracy on the line, I had a responsibility to do my part to defend it from MAGA extremism.

Together, our grassroots movement organized the Lower Hudson Valley like it has never been organized before. We made over one million phone calls, knocked on over 220,000 doors, raised over $10.6 million, and organized over 4,000 volunteers.

We focused on lowering costs, protecting Social Security and Medicare, restoring reproductive freedom for women, securing our border, and making our communities safer.

Unfortunately, the environment hasn’t changed much in New York since 2022, and it is always extremely difficult to unseat an incumbent. The data clearly show that this is not the same district Biden won by 10 points in the last presidential election. At this juncture, it is unclear whether Vice President Harris will win this district at all. Then there’s the Congressional Leadership Fund, the top GOP super PAC for House candidates, which spent more money against me distorting my record than against any other congressional candidate in the country.

Despite our regrettable loss, and Donald Trump’s return to the White House, I remain optimistic about America’s future. Our nation’s history shows us that progress is not linear. Progress comes in fits. As we continue on America’s long march towards freedom, I am ever grateful to the thousands of volunteers who poured their hearts and souls into this race, and to the thousands of Lower Hudson Valley voters who share my vision of a better world.

It was the honor of my life to represent the last version of New York’s 17th Congressional District, the same communities that elevated me from poverty all the way to the House of Representatives. My commitment to public service, and to pragmatic leadership in these times of extremism and division, is as strong as ever.

Finally, I wish Congressman Mike Lawler, whom I have known for years, the very best in his next term.

Thank you for standing with me in this fight,

Mondaire