George Conway, a former conservative attorney and prominent critic of former President Donald Trump, has officially filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to run for Congress. His candidacy aims to represent New York City’s 12th Congressional District as a member of the Democratic Party. This announcement marks a significant shift for Conway, who gained notoriety for his vocal opposition to Trump while his wife, Kellyanne Conway, served as a senior adviser in the Trump administration.
Background and Congressional Ambitions
Conway, 62, has positioned himself as a key figure in the anti-Trump movement, co-founding The Lincoln Project in 2019, an organization dedicated to opposing Trump and his policies. His criticisms of the former president resonated widely, earning him a substantial online following. Trump himself labeled Conway as “a stone cold LOSER & husband from hell,” reflecting the contentious relationship between the two.
Conway enters a competitive race to succeed Jerrold Nadler, who has represented the district since 1992 and previously chaired the powerful House Judiciary Committee. Nadler announced in September that he would not seek reelection, emphasizing the need for generational change within the Democratic Party.
The 12th Congressional District encompasses some of New York City’s most affluent areas, including the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Midtown. This district is known for its strong Democratic leanings, with at least nine other candidates vying for the party’s nomination. Notable contenders include Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, Cameron Kasky, a co-founder of March for Our Lives, and Micah Lasher, a New York Assemblyman and protégé of Nadler.
Conway’s Vision for Congress
On his podcast, Conway hinted at the personal nature of his decision to run, stating he was embarking on “either the stupidest thing I’ve ever done, or the best thing.” His reflections on the upcoming midterm elections underscored his belief that the current House of Representatives has become “a kneeling gallery” to the president. He expressed concern over the precarious state of democracy, asserting that “a handful of seats is all that stands between democracy and a president who answers to no one.”
In a post on Substack, Conway emphasized the need for fearless and relentless Democrats to take control of Congress. He stated, “We need Democrats to take over Congress — and not just any Democrats, but the most fearless and relentless ones.” His call to action resonates with those who share his apprehensions regarding the future of the political landscape.
As Conway embarks on this new political journey, his candidacy adds a notable chapter to the evolving narrative of former Trump associates transitioning into political roles. With a long campaign ahead, the political dynamics in New York City are sure to shift as candidates vie for the Democratic nomination and the opportunity to represent a crucial district in the U.S. House of Representatives.
