Central New York native Francis Conole has secured the Democratic nomination for New York’s 22nd Congressional District, claiming a feat he failed to reach two years ago.

The U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Iraq War veteran finished ahead of three other candidates Tuesday night in the competitive race to succeed Republican Rep. John Katko in Congress.

As of the latest unofficial results, Conole had 40% of the vote, closely followed by DeWitt Town Councilor Sarah Klee Hood at 36%. Sam Roberts and Chol Majok trailed behind, with 13% and 12% respectively.

"We've really tried to stay focused on our message, which is that especially now, in a time when our country really faces a multitude of crises that we need serious leadership and serious representation to meet this moment," Conole told supporters.

Conole first ran for the House seat in 2020. Passed over by local Democrats as the designated nominee in favor of two-time candidate Dana Balter, Conole mounted a primary challenge against her, but was unsuccessful. This time around, the Onondaga County Democratic Committee threw its support behind Conole.

Now the nominee, Conole aims to do what Democrats have failed to do since 2012 — win the House district anchored by Syracuse.

The new 22nd District is made up of Onondaga, Madison and Oneida counties. Following Rep. Katko’s victories in a district that voted for Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, the new 22nd District is likely to be one of the state’s more competitive races.

Conole will face Republican Brandon Williams, who easily won his primary against Steven Wells, in the general election in November.