Photo: Marie Hickman / The Image Bank Unreleased / Getty Images
Auburn native Kailee Buller announced her candidacy for New York's 22nd Congressional District on Thursday (March 5). Buller, a Republican and former official at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), aims to unseat Democratic Congressman John Mannion in the upcoming November election.
Buller, who recently resigned from her position as chief of staff to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, has the support of all five Republican and Conservative Party county chairs in the district. Her campaign will focus on lowering costs, restoring public trust, and delivering tangible results for Central New York's working families. Buller expressed her commitment to bipartisan representation, criticizing Mannion for failing to deliver on his promises.
The 22nd District, which includes Syracuse, Auburn, Cortland, and Utica, has traditionally leaned Republican. However, recent redistricting has given Democrats a slight voter advantage. Despite this, Buller remains optimistic about her chances, emphasizing her working-class background and dedication to addressing rising costs in energy, housing, and food.
Buller, who celebrated her 37th birthday on March 4, is a first-time political candidate. She has a rich history of advocating for food and economic policies, having served as president and CEO of both the National Oilseed Processors Association and the Edible Oil Producers Association. Her campaign will likely face an uphill battle, as Mannion holds a significant financial advantage and the district is currently rated as "solid Democratic" by the Cook Political Report.
Buller’s decision to run follows a period of uncertainty for the Republican Party in the district, with several potential candidates dropping out. Her entry into the race marks a new chapter for the GOP as they seek to reclaim the seat.