Democratic state Sen. Alessandra Biaggi on Monday formally launched her bid for the newly drawn 3rd congressional district as the redistricting process has reshaped the state's political geography. 

The new district includes Long Island Sound communities in Westchester, Nassau and Suffolk counties as well the Bronx. 

“Our country doesn’t just need more Democrats in Washington, we need bolder ones," Biaggi said. "I am running for Congress in NY-3 to bring progressive and honest leadership to the frontlines of our country’s most important fights. Hardworking families of Westchester, Long Island, the Bronx, and Queens deserve an experienced, strong, and fearless leader in Washington. And that’s exactly what they can expect from me."

Biaggi was first elected to the state Senate in 2018 after winning a Democratic primary against Sen. Jeff Klein who had been the leader of the now-defunct Independent Democratic Conference. The current district is represented by Democratic Rep. Tom Suozzi, who is vacating the seat as he runs for the Democratic nomination for governor. 

"As the Representative of the Sound, I will work to combat climate change and protect our shorelines, expand voting rights, enact universal pre-K to support working parents, provide opportunity and relief for the middle class, protect abortion rights, ensure public safety and a fair criminal legal system, and deliver affordable healthcare for all," Biaggi said. "Together, we delivered progressive change on these issues in Albany, and it is time to bring our energy and resolve to Washington."

The newly drawn and approved maps for the U.S. House of Representatives in New York is being challenged in state court by Republican voters. 

Still, that hasn't stopped candidates from declaring for the new House seats given the tight political calendar: Petitioning for ballot access is set for March; party primaries are scheduled for June.