Republican incumbents in two upstate New York swing districts are taking distinct approaches as they seek re-election to third terms in the House.
Rep. Elise Stefanik has embraced President Donald Trump. She burnished her image with her district's sizeable military population and solid Republican base by bringing Trump to Fort Drum to sign a defense spending bill in August. Her district in far northern New York elected Trump by a nearly 14-percent margin after twice voting for President Barack Obama.
Rep. John Katko serves a neighboring district that includes Syracuse. He at times stands apart from his own party, blaming far-right Republicans for causing gridlock in Washington. Katko was one of only 23 House Republicans in 2016 to win a district carried by Hillary Clinton.
Both districts are targeted by Democrats seeking to flip the House.
