On Monday, former conservative lawyer George Conway filed paperwork to run as a Democrat in New York’s 12th Congressional District, a move that could add a high-profile name to a crowded primary contest to replace retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler.
Conway’s Political Journey
Conway’s career has spanned a dramatic shift in political allegiance. Early in President Donald Trump’s first term, Conway publicly supported the president, a stance that aligned with his then-wife, Kellyanne Conway, who served as a senior presidential adviser. Over time, the couple’s political relationship evolved. Conway emerged as one of Trump’s fiercest critics, frequently condemning the president’s actions on social media and cable news. His criticism mirrored, and at times intensified, Kellyanne Conway’s public defense of Trump.
In 2022, Conway helped found the anti-Trump Lincoln Project, a coalition of former Republicans dedicated to opposing Trump’s influence in politics. The project’s formation underscored Conway’s pivot away from the Republican Party. Early in 2023, the Conways announced their divorce, a personal milestone that coincided with Conway’s growing public profile as a Trump critic.
The 12th District Race
The 12th Congressional District, a Manhattan-based seat, is set to open when Rep. Jerry Nadler retires. The district has become a focal point for Democratic candidates, with several high-profile individuals entering the race. Conway’s filing as a Democrat adds another prominent name to the field, though he has not yet made an official announcement and his campaign did not respond to a request for comment.
The primary is expected to be crowded. Aside from Conway, two other notable candidates have already declared their intentions. John F. Kennedy’s grandson, Jack Schlossberg, announced in November that he was seeking to succeed Nadler. Micah Lasher, a former Nadler aide and current New York state lawmaker, has also entered the Democratic primary.
Key Contenders
- George Conway – Former conservative lawyer, Trump ally turned critic, Lincoln Project co-founder, filing to run as a Democrat.
- Jack Schlossberg – Grandson of President John F. Kennedy, announced his candidacy in November.
- Micah Lasher – Former aide to Rep. Nadler and current state legislator, entered the primary.
Each contender brings a distinct background to the race, reflecting the diverse political landscape of the district.
District Overview
The 12th Congressional District stretches from Union Square to the northern edge of Central Park. It encompasses affluent neighborhoods such as the Upper East Side and Upper West Side, making it a district with a mix of high-income residents and a strong Democratic base. The area’s demographic composition and economic profile have historically favored Democratic candidates.
Key Takeaways
- George Conway has filed to run as a Democrat for the open 12th District seat.
- The primary will feature several high-profile candidates, including Jack Schlossberg and Micah Lasher.
- Conway’s political evolution-from Trump supporter to critic and Lincoln Project co-founder-highlights a significant shift in his public stance.
- The district’s geography spans key Manhattan neighborhoods, underscoring its importance in New York politics.
Closing
Conway’s entry into the race marks a notable development in the 12th Congressional District’s upcoming election. With the primary set to feature multiple prominent figures, voters in Manhattan will soon have a broad array of options to consider as they decide who will carry forward the legacy of Rep. Jerry Nadler. The outcome of this contest will shape the district’s representation for the next decade.
