Candidates line up to fill Stefanik’s seat

U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik will go before the Senate later this week for a confirmation hearing to become part of President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet.

The North Country congresswoman has been nominated to be ambassador to the United Nations. Candidates are lining up to fill her seat.

Among the Republican candidates are state Sen. Dan Stec of Queensbury, Assemblyman Robert Smullen from Johnsbury and Assemblyman Chris Tague from Schoharie County.

Other candidates are Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino and Joe Pinion, who ran against U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer.

Democrats include Rod Driscoll and Paula Collins, who ran against Stefanik last November.