Republican Businesswoman Jackie Auringer Announces Challenge to Democratic Rep. Pat Ryan in New York's 18th District

S. House of Representatives in New York's 18th Congressional District. She aims to challenge Democratic Rep. Pat Ryan, who is seeking a third term. The district includes parts of Ulster County. Auringer works as a project manager and accountant at Urban Precast, her family-run construction business.

She stated that she is entering the race because families in the community where she grew up can no longer afford to stay. According to Auringer, Rep. Ryan has not addressed these issues effectively.

“The results speak for themselves—Pat Ryan has failed the Hudson Valley. He has been cowed by party bosses instead of standing up for local families," said Auringer (New York Post). Auringer added that her experience in the construction industry has prepared her to address local needs.”

She plans to focus on representing the interests of Hudson Valley residents in Congress. She will officially accept the Republican Party nomination on Monday.

Background on Candidates Rep.

S. He previously served as Ulster County executive before his election to Congress in 2022. 5 million in cash on hand. Auringer has experience in Republican organizing.

While working for her family business in Florida, she founded Palm Beach Conservatives and served as vice president of the Palm Beach Federated Republican Women. She stated that these roles helped her build relationships with donors and activists across the country to support her campaign.

District and Election Context The 18th Congressional District encompasses areas in Ulster County.

The Cook Political Report rates the district as solid Democrat, indicating a strong advantage for the incumbent. In the 2024 election, Rep. Ryan defeated his Republican opponent. S. House. The outcome could affect the balance of power in Congress, depending on results nationwide.

Voters in the district will decide in the November 2026 general election.