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Marc Molinaro, the current leader of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), is considering a return to Congress. He is exploring a run for the soon-to-be-vacant seat of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik in New York's 21st Congressional District. Molinaro, who previously served as a Republican Congressman for New York's 19th Congressional District, has been reaching out to Republican and Conservative Party leaders to assess his candidacy's viability.
Molinaro's potential candidacy has sparked criticism, particularly from former New York State Assemblyman Kieran Lalor. Lalor criticized Molinaro on social media, accusing him of being a "self-serving and self-absorbed career politician" and questioning his residency, as Molinaro does not live in the district he seeks to represent. Lalor, known for his outspoken conservative views, also highlighted Molinaro's recent appointment by President Trump to the FTA, suggesting that Molinaro is seeking another position too soon after his current appointment.
Molinaro's political career includes serving as the mayor of Tivoli, a member of the Dutchess County Legislature, and Dutchess County Executive. He also ran unsuccessfully for Governor of New York in 2018. Despite his experience, Molinaro faces challenges due to his perceived lack of connection to the district and his evolving political stances, such as softening his opposition to abortion during the 2024 campaign.
The race for New York's 21st Congressional District is expected to be competitive, with other candidates like Assemblyman Robert Smullen and business owner Anthony Constantino also vying for the Republican nomination. Molinaro has not yet made a formal announcement about his candidacy, but he is reportedly seeking support from President Trump.