KINDERHOOK, N.Y. -- Republican John Faso is very optimistic about a second term after a new poll shows him leading by five points against Democrat Antonio Delgado.

The Spectrum News/Siena College poll has the incumbent Faso with 45 percent of the likely voters surveyed in the 19th Congressional District. First-time candidate Delgado had 40 percent.

“I think the big thing for me is that we’re ahead. I tell my supporters 'don’t be overconfident; continue working hard,' ” Faso said.

With 11 counties in the district, the numbers varied depending on the location. In the northern portion, which includes the Capital Region, Faso leads by 17 points. In Ulster and Dutchess counties, Delgado is ahead with 13 points. For Sullivan County and the Southern Tier, Faso holds a 23-point advantage.

“It’s very geographically and politically diverse, but I’m confident we can win," Faso said.

Delgado declined an interview, but did release a statement on the polls: "Great to learn that 10 weeks from Election Day, the incumbent here has only been able to secure a minor 5-point lead in a poll with a margin of error of 4.8 percent," Delgado said. "I am not surprised by these results as I hear all across our district from people who feel John Faso does not represent them, especially on health care."

The poll did not include Green Party candidate Steve Greenfield. With additional names on the ballot, that could swing some votes come November.

“It’s actually, right now, a three-way race, and there could be additional candidates if the independent candidates succeed in their court challenge to get back on the ballot,” Faso said.