PEARL RIVER, NY: Lifelong Rockland County resident and Town of Orangetown Deputy Supervisor Michael Lawler has announced that he will be running for the 97th district of the New York State Assembly. The district is composed of the Towns of Orangetown and Ramapo, and is currently held by Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee since 2012.
Lawler, age 33, is a graduate of Suffern High School and Manhattan College, where he was named Valedictorian. In 2019, City and State selected him as one of the top 50 political consultants in New York.
Michael started his political career in 2008 on the Presidential campaign of United States Senator John McCain. He then spent four years at the New York Republican State Committee, including nearly two-and-a-half years as Executive Director, coinciding with a resurgence that saw Republicans take back control of the New York State Senate, elect seven new Republican Members of Congress, and make significant gains across the state with County Executives, District Attorneys, Sheriff’s, Clerks and County Legislators. He has also served in local government, previously working in the Westchester County Executive’s office.
“Mike has been an invaluable part of our team and understands how to put together a winning campaign, but I’ve long believed Mike has more to offer not just to our party, but Rockland County. As a Suffern High School graduate and Pearl River resident, Mike knows the people of this district and has the skills, intellect, and work ethic to serve as our next Assemblyman. I’m proud to support Mike and look forward to helping him win in November.” said Rockland County Republican Party Chairman Lawrence Garvey.
“Michael Lawler as Chairman of the Orangetown Committee is a valued asset and will be a strong leader in the NYS assembly. The Ramapo Republican Committee is proud to support his candidacy for the 97th Assembly District.” said Ramapo Republican Committee Chairman Marino Fontanta.
The 97th Assembly District is currently held by longtime Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee. Lawler is the most significant and qualified challenger Jaffee has ever faced. With running mate Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann running for NYS Senate, this is by far the most serious slate of candidates the Rockland County Republican Party has fielded for state elected offices.
Michael who grew up in Nanuet before moving to Suffern, lives in Pearl River (NY) with his wife Doina.