By RICK MILLER
Olean Star
A Tioga County Republican has declared his candidacy for Congress in the 23rd Congressional District.
James King, a retired engineer and lifelong moderate Republican plans to enter into the Republican primary in a bid to unseat two-term Rep. Nick Langworthy of Niagara County.
King, in a statement declaring his candidacy for the 23rd Congressional District, said he is running “to help restore trust, integrity, and principled leadership within the Republican Party.” He said his decision to run “is
rooted in a desire to bring decency, compassion, and accountability back to public service.”
Nominating petitions will be circulated between Feb. 24, and April 2. Filing the nominating petitions for Congress is between March 30 and April 6. The primary is set for June 23.
Cattaraugus County Democrat Aaron Gies of Olean, a St. Bonaventure University professor and Erie County attorney Kevin Stocker have announced they plan to run in the 23rd Congressional District, which will set off a Democratic primary.
King said, “The Republican Party has a proud history, but many voters feel it has drifted away from the
values that once defined it. I believe it’s time to reconnect with the principles of integrity, respect for the Constitution, and service to the people.”
King’s campaign platform, available at king4ny23.com, outlines proposals focused on affordability, health care access, and responsible debt reduction. However, he says his first priority is rebuilding confidence in government by restoring a culture of listening, honesty, and cooperation.
According to King, many residents of the 23rd District feel misrepresented in Washington. “Too often, constituents feel their voices are being ignored,” he said. “My goal is to represent the people of this district with independence, thoughtfulness, and a commitment to constitutional
governance not now exercised by the Republican majority in Congress.”
While Republicans remain the largest registered party in the district, King notes that some longtime members feel uneasy about the current direction of national politics.
“The Republican Party I believe in values strong communities, responsible leadership, and policies that protect families, health care, and opportunity,” he said.
King acknowledged that running for office was not something he previously envisioned for himself, but said recent years have convinced him that participation is necessary. “I felt a responsibility to step forward and offer voters a choice rooted in traditional Republican values,”
he said.
King says residents of the district deserve leadership guided by clear principles, including:
- Respect for the Constitution and its checks and balances Accountability and integrity in public office.
- Putting the country ahead of political ambition.
- Listening carefully to constituents.
- Offering honest answers to honest questions.
- Seeking solutions where all sides are heard.
- Addressing national debt responsibly.
- Letting actions speak louder than words.
“I believe there’s room in the Republican Party for thoughtful disagreement and respectful dialogue,” King said. “Labels and divisions only distract from the work that needs to be done.”
King is currently seeking support to qualify for the Republican primary ballot and will need 1,250 signatures from registered Republican voters. Those interested in learning more or getting involved can visit his campaign website or his Facebook page at:
