NY Legislator Enters 2026 Bid to Oust Rep. John Mannion

A New Challenger Emerges in the 22nd Congressional District

A Republican state lawmaker, John Lemondes, who previously served in the Army and later transitioned to farming, is set to launch a campaign to challenge Rep. John Mannion in the 22nd Congressional District. This move comes after Lemondes decided against seeking a fourth term in the 126th Assembly District.

Lemondes has been a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump and his policies. He believes the 2020 election was stolen from Trump and opposes abortion rights. Additionally, he supports Trump’s decision to pardon those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. His views on education include criticism of what he calls “progressive woke curricula” in New York public schools, which he claims are used to indoctrinate students.

A Conservative Voice in Albany

Lemondes, 60, from LaFayette, has a long-standing conservative record in Albany. He rarely aligns with the Democratic majority in the state Assembly and has often criticized Governor Kathy Hochul and her administration for their handling of issues like illegal immigration and urban violence. During the pandemic, he opposed mask mandates for schoolchildren, calling them “draconian.”

This isn’t the first time Lemondes has sought the Republican nomination for Congress. In 2014, he finished second to John Katko in a race against Rep. Dan Maffei. He had been considered a potential candidate for 2026 but initially declined to run in April. However, he recently changed his mind due to concerns over Mannion's partisan focus, particularly his opposition to Trump's agenda.

A Disagreement That Sparked the Campaign

The turning point for Lemondes came during a “No Kings” protest in June, where Mannion joined protesters on Solar Street in Syracuse. The event coincided with Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday. Lemondes found it disrespectful and called the rally “billionaire-funded propaganda,” suggesting George Soros’ foundation may have funded some participants. While he admitted he had no evidence for this claim, he emphasized his belief in the need for transparency.

Military Background and Farm Life

Lemondes is a 27-year Army veteran, retiring as a colonel and serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. His military awards include two Legions of Merit and a Bronze Star. After retiring in 2014, he moved to a farm in LaFayette, managing over 500 acres with 180 breeding female sheep and producing sheepskin clothing and maple syrup.

He stated that his motivation to run for Congress stems from a sense of service to the nation, aiming to ensure “prosperity and opportunity for the next generation.” Lemondes criticized Mannion’s combative approach and expressed his intention to work collaboratively for Central New York.

Positions on Key Issues

On abortion rights, Lemondes opposes them but leaves his vote dependent on the specific bill language. He supports exceptions for cases of rape, incest, or when the mother’s life is at risk. Regarding Trump’s government reshaping efforts, he backs the shutdown of agencies like the Department of Education and USAID, and supports the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which includes significant cuts to social safety net programs.

He cites Rep. Claudia Tenney as an ideal role model, sharing her views on border security and immigration. On the 2020 election, he expresses personal belief in its theft but acknowledges the lack of evidence. He also supports Trump’s pardons for those involved in the January 6 attack, trusting the process.

Challenges Ahead

Mannion, a former state senator, won the House seat in 2024 by a significant margin. Lemondes faces an uphill battle if he secures the Republican nomination, especially against fellow contender John Salka. The 22nd District leans Democratic, with more registered voters in favor of the party. Despite this, Republicans remain focused on flipping other New York House seats held by Democrats.

As the race unfolds, Lemondes aims to highlight his military experience, business acumen, and commitment to Central New York’s needs. His campaign will likely center on his vision for a more collaborative and effective Congress.