As the race for New York’s 21st Congressional District intensifies, Republican candidate Anthony Constantino faces stiff competition from Democrat Blake Gendebien. The district, historically a Republican stronghold, is now in play as recent polling indicates a close contest ahead of Election Day.
Constantino, known for his flamboyant campaign style, gained attention with unique promotional tactics, including a backdrop of frozen turkeys during his launch and a rap album paying tribute to former President Trump. Despite his enthusiastic support from Trump’s base, his campaign may be vulnerable due to shifting voter sentiments. A recent Siena University poll showed Gendebien with a slight edge, a notable development in a district where registered Republicans outnumber Democrats by 80,000.
Gendebien, a 49-year-old dairy farmer, attributes his campaign’s momentum to a focus on local economic issues, especially the rising costs of fuel and fertilizer. “We’re thrilled we’re hitting all the right notes,” he stated during a recent interview. His approach includes a conservative message tailored to appeal to the district’s Republican voters by advocating for improved economic conditions and reversing cuts to rural healthcare.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has recognized the competitive nature of the race, adding the 21st District to its Red to Blue program, which provides financial and operational support to Gendebien’s campaign. Gendebien emphasizes his conservative roots, presenting himself as a “free-market capitalist Democrat,” while distancing himself from the broader Democratic leadership, including Governor Kathy Hochul, who is also facing challenges in her own race.
Constantino, 43, gained notoriety for his 12-foot Trump sign atop his sticker company building and has attracted controversy through various public disputes. He won the Republican primary despite conflicts with local party leaders and has controversially employed individuals with criminal backgrounds. His campaign has involved several high-profile incidents, including harassment allegations from Gendebien, who reports drones flying over his farm. Constantino claimed to have video evidence of pollution near Gendebien’s property; however, a state investigation found no violations.
In a campaign marked by unusual theatrics, Constantino staged a mock debate featuring a person in a chicken costume as a stand-in for Gendebien and sent him a gourmet cheese basket in August. Some local Republican voters, however, express discomfort with Constantino’s tactics, including the drone incidents, which they view as inappropriate.
As the election approaches, Gendebien remains optimistic about his chances, believing that if Democrats gain control of the House, his local experience will enable him to secure critical resources for the district. “Do we want someone who’s antagonistic?” he asked. “Or do we want a congressman who’s in the majority that will very likely be able to bring things back?”
