Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has responded to controversial comments made by one of her Democratic challengers.

In a candidate forum that did not include the congresswoman, Democrat Steve Krieg said he recognizes "Stefanik as a child, and it has nothing to do with her age."

Stefanik released a statement that read: "As families across the 21st District learn of these inexcusably inappropriate remarks that have now appalled a national audience, they will ask themselves two questions: Why are national Democrats like Nancy Pelosi and local Democrats in the 21st District silent in the face of such sexist statements?"

Krieg has not responded to requests for comment.