Republican Christine Esposito is challenging incumbent Democrat Marianne Buttenschon in New York's 119th Assembly District seat.

“I think you need somebody who is willing to stand up for change, stand up to have their voices heard in Central New York, the Mohawk Valley,” said Christine Esposito.

“I understand the importance of listening to everyone and putting forward that legislation. And I will fight like I always have for that legislation to get across the finish line,” said Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon.

The 119th Assembly District covers parts of central and eastern Oneida County and includes the cities of Utica and Rome.

“As far as bail reform, I do think it should be amended. Currently, we’re looking at protecting the rights of criminals, over the rights of victims and that becomes problematic. We see repeat offenders,” said Esposito.

“So how I’ve done that is put forward legislation that affords our judicial branch or our judges more discretion when it comes to an individual that does not live locally, when it comes to domestic violence,” said Buttenschon.

Both candidates feel they’ve tapped into what matters most to their constituents. 

“We’re spending more on illegal immigration than we are on our seniors, our veterans and our homeless combined. If we address these issues, we bring more money back to the community,” said Esposito.

“I don’t care what party you’re with, all I care is, if you are passionate and have a mission and government needs to be a part of that solution, then I’m the person to do that for you,” said Buttenschon.

Buttenschon has held the seat since 2019.