Congressman Pat Ryan Wins Reelection in NY-18, Defeating Republican Jackie Auringer

Democratic Congressman Pat Ryan has won reelection in New York’s 18th Congressional District, defeating Republican challenger Jackie Auringer and securing another term in Washington, according to election-night projections.

Ryan’s victory is of particular interest to the frum community because of the support he received from chareidi voters in the Hudson Valley, where Orthodox Jewish communities have become an increasingly important presence in regional politics.

The district includes Orange County and portions of Dutchess and Ulster counties, encompassing communities where issues involving religious freedom, education, public safety, and federal assistance have attracted considerable attention among Orthodox Jewish residents.

Ryan, a West Point graduate and Army veteran who served two tours in Iraq, has represented the 18th District since January 2023. He previously served as Ulster County executive and first entered Congress following a special election victory in 2022.

During his tenure in Washington, Ryan has emphasized economic affordability, infrastructure improvements, veterans’ services, and national security. He has also supported continued American assistance to Israel, an issue of particular importance to Jewish voters.

The congressman entered Tuesday’s election as a strong favorite. Decision Desk HQ’s pre-election forecast gave Ryan a greater than 99 percent probability of victory, reflecting his incumbency advantage, substantial fundraising lead, and the district’s political composition.

Ryan also enjoyed a significant financial advantage over Auringer, raising approximately $5.36 million during the election cycle, compared with roughly $159,000 raised by his Republican challenger.

Auringer campaigned as the Republican and Conservative Party nominee, seeking to unseat the Democratic incumbent during an election in which Republicans were battling to retain control of the House of Representatives.

Ryan’s victory comes as Democrats are projected to regain the House majority, threatening to complicate President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda during the remaining two years of his presidency.

The result also illustrates the political importance of Orthodox Jewish voters in portions of the Hudson Valley, where candidates from both major parties have increasingly sought relationships with frum community leaders and residents.

Although Ryan is a Democrat, his support among chareidi voters demonstrates that local community considerations can play an important role in congressional elections, even when voters may differ with a candidate on broader national political questions.

With his reelection, Ryan will continue representing the district when the new Congress convenes in January 2027, as Democrats prepare for a potentially significant change in the balance of power in Washington.