By Mid Hudson News®
MONROE- A third candidate has entered the race for the 42nd State Senate District, which comprises Orange County with the exception of the Town and City of Newburgh and the Town of Montgomery. The district is currently represented by Democratic State Senator James Skoufis of Cornwall.
Timothy Jon Mitts of Monroe filed Conservative petitions to appear on the ballot in a June primary election where he will face off against Dorey Houle, a councilwoman from the Town of Monroe, to appear on the Conservative line in the general election.
Houle narrowly lost to Skoufis in 2022 and was endorsed by the Orange County Republican and Conservative parties in both her 2022 and 2024 bids. By filing Conservative petitions, Mitts sets up a contested primary against Houle.
“I have official (sic) entered the race for NY State Senator race in the 42nd district. I’m the best candidate to win the race in November 2024,” wrote Mitts. “Unlike my opponents, I will walk the walk and talk to (sic) talk.”
According to Grace White, chairwoman of the Orange County Conservative Party, Mitts is not endorsed by the party. White said that Houle was endorsed back in January before Mitts became a party member. “She represents our values and the committee voted to support her,” said White.
Mitts changed his party affiliation from Republican to Conservative on February 14th.
Mitts says he is running to support business, police, fire, and EMS, as well as pass stronger laws on crime and bail reform. He also plans to fight against overdevelopment and higher taxes.
Despite Mitts’ challenge to appear on the Conservative line, Houle locked in her place on the Republican line in the November general election. The results of the Conservative primary will determine whether Houle or Mitts will appear as the Conservative candidate.
State election law allows for objections to be filed challenging nominating petitions. It is unclear whether or not objections will be filed against the Mitts petitions.
