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Conley, Lawler Clash Over ICE Shooting in Pivotal Debate

By Drooid · Oct 15, 2026, 3:59 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Lawler Debates Immigration

Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) debated Democratic veteran Cait Conley in New York’s 17th District.
Lawler cited an ICE shooting of an illegal immigrant in the Bronx with a five-year-old child.
Conley condemned the shooting and supported federal immigration enforcement and deportations.
Lawler blamed New York sanctuary laws and Governor Kathy Hochul’s bail reforms for blocking deportation.
The district is pivotal for U.S. House control, with both sides spending millions.

Summary

American Bridge Posts Clip

American Bridge 21st Century posted a debate clip on Twitter, making it go viral.
Strategist Ceara Gilmartin-Donohue praised Conley's “Don’t start, sit over there” retort.
Commentator Liz Charboneau mocked Lawler’s height, joking he sat because he couldn’t stand.
Host Dan Mannarino of PIX11 asked a question about the definition of federal consent.
Lawler invoked former Gov. Eliot Spitzer’s prostitution scandal while attacking Conley's campaign funds.

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Lawler Debates Immigration

Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) debated Democratic veteran Cait Conley in New York’s 17th District.
Lawler cited an ICE shooting of an illegal immigrant in the Bronx with a five-year-old child.
Conley condemned the shooting and supported federal immigration enforcement and deportations.
Lawler blamed New York sanctuary laws and Governor Kathy Hochul’s bail reforms for blocking deportation.
The district is pivotal for U.S. House control, with both sides spending millions.

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