Outgoing Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, has given his endorsement to fellow Congressman Mike Lawler, a Republican from New York, supporting him for re-election in an opinion piece written ahead of the 2026 midterm election. Golden highlighted the importance of electing members who prioritize work over performance, pointing to Lawler as a candidate who exemplifies this approach.

Golden expressed his support by saying, “The Congress we get is the one we elect, and the country needs fewer members who treat the job as a stage and more who treat it as work. In New York’s Hudson Valley this fall, that is the choice on the ballot. Mike Lawler has been a true partner to me and a friend to fishing families he will never represent.” He encouraged voters to re-elect Lawler, endorsing the idea of bipartisanship by stating, “Wherever you live, find the members who pass laws with the other party, and keep them.”

Golden has served in the House of Representatives since early 2019, but announced last year that he will not seek re-election in 2026. Lawler, elected to the House in early 2023, is currently running for re-election.

Lawler responded to Golden’s endorsement in a social media post, saying, “It’s an honor and a privilege to accept the endorsement of my friend, Democratic Congressman Jared Golden.” He noted their collaboration across party lines, emphasizing a shared belief that prioritizing the interests of constituents over party politics would be advantageous for the country.

Lawler faces Democratic candidate Cait Conley in the upcoming election for New York’s 17th Congressional District. Conley, a combat veteran, has held positions such as National Security Council director for counterterrorism and roles within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg recently participated in a rally in support of Conley, expressing his backing through a post on social media.