Overview

• The campaign launch on August 5 introduced Chris Gallant as a 36-year-old Black Hawk pilot, Army National Guard member and volunteer firefighter seeking the suburban Long Island seat.
• He frames himself as a bipartisan problem solver focused on Long Island’s rising cost of living, healthcare access and new student loan limits under the recent federal budget law.
• Incumbent Rep. Nick LaLota holds about $1.7 million in campaign funds and is defending his role in expanding the state and local tax deduction cap for local families.
• John Avlon stepped aside from the contest, prompting the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to endorse Gallant as its 2026 challenger to LaLota.
• New York’s 1st District has remained under Republican control since 2014, making it a key target for Democrats aiming to reclaim the House majority in 2026.