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Facing long odds in the race for Congressional District 23, challenger Aaron Gies is to be commended for his tireless efforts on the campaign trail over the last four months. He has held numerous town hall meetings from Erie to Tioga County during the summer and fall.
His major talking points at the meetings are all hot-button issues this election. Those include health care, education and preserving the region's agricultural base.
"I am running for Congress because I believe every person in this district deserves to have a representative who shows up, listens, and works with them to make a good life affordable,” he said during a Jamestown stop.
By all accounts, the gatherings were informative and well attended. They were also greatly appreciated by those seeking an alternative to the incumbent.
For his part, U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy has not been as amenable to that process. Since first taking office in 2023, he has said he favors telephone conference calls with constituents, in-person meetings and events that bring a focus to significant issues and happenings.
Langworthy has consistently done this during his four-year stint. Over the summer, he visited UPMC Chautauqua hospital in Jamestown to hear first hand regarding its challenges and successes. He's been outspoken and a proponent of the HALT --- Halt All Lethal Trafficking -- of Fentanyl Act, touting the legislation as “a major victory in the war against the opioid epidemic.”
In addition, Langworthy has been a supporter of the region's treasured natural resources. He secured federal funding for a comprehensive study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Chautauqua Lake. The initiative aims to restore the lake’s aquatic ecosystems, improve habitats, and enhance recreational opportunities, all while addressing flood risks and public health concerns. With Lake Erie, his work has improved the Barcelona Harbor with dredging projects.
Opponents are critical of Langworthy's support of President Donald Trump. That is a non-starter with us. Many Congressional representatives, even for our former Rep. Brian Higgins, followed the party or President Barack Obama's lead on issues.
Gies deserves high marks for all of his communication and appearances while leading a strong campaign. Langworthy, however, has been in the trenches fighting for this region for years. He gets our endorsement.