BINGHAMTON (WBNG) — The race for the 19th Congressional District heated up to a new level on Friday.

Marc Molinaro and Josh Riley sought an advantage in one of the most competitive congressional races in the country.

House Speaker Mike Johnson appeared with Molinaro on Friday afternoon and said his re-election is crucial to the success of the next Congress.

“I’ve probably been to Marc’s district more than any other and there’s a reason for that,” Johnson said. “He is one of the most important members of the United States House of Representatives, one of the most effective members that I think has served in the modern era, and he is one of my favorite people.”

Molinaro’s event also featured former congressman and gubernatorial candidate Lee Zeldin. Zeldin said Molinaro is ready to move forward on the issues that matter most to voters.

“Marc Molinaro is a local fighter and for those of you who want a stronger economy, a safer border, a better foreign policy,” Zeldin said. “If you want to fight illegal immigration to protect tax dollars, then Marc Molinaro is your local fighter.”

Across the aisle, Josh Riley was joined by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies in Binghamton on Friday night.

Jefferies said Riley is a natural leader who is ready for this opportunity.

“Josh Riley is a common sense leader. “Josh Riley is a compassionate leader,” Jefferies said. “Josh Riley is a courageous leader. Josh Riley is a caring leader. “Josh Riley is a leader seeking common ground, and with your support, Josh Riley is the next congressman from the 19th Congressional District.”

New York Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado also supported Riley and said he is ready to step up for all Americans, regardless of their background.

“Let me remind you that in Josh Riley we have someone who cares about being a public servant, someone who cares about investing in all communities and helping everyone from the ground up,” Delgado said. “And do it without discriminating based on race, gender or class, or who has the deepest pockets because they are bought and paid for like their opponent.”

Full one-on-one interviews with Riley and Molinaro on their platforms can be found on our home page.

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