Democratic Congressman Josh Riley joined Radio Catskill’s Patricio Robayo to discuss his reelection campaign for New York’s 19th Congressional District, his first term in Washington and the issues facing residents ahead of the November election.

Riley is running against Republican State Senator Peter Oberacker for the seat, which includes communities across the Catskills, Hudson Valley, Southern Tier and Central New York.

During the interview, Riley discussed his legislative record and his approach to working with Republicans and Democrats in Congress. He said representing a politically diverse district has reinforced the importance of focusing on the needs of constituents rather than party politics.

Riley identified affordability as one of the biggest concerns facing residents, particularly rising utility costs. He criticized utility companies operating in the region, including NYSEG and Central Hudson, arguing that rate increases are placing additional financial pressure on households.

He discussed legislation aimed at addressing utility costs, including proposals to restrict foreign ownership of utility companies, eliminate certain taxes on utility bills and change how utility executives are compensated. Riley also discussed his efforts to challenge proposed rate increases through the state’s regulatory process.

The conversation turned to Verizon’s plans to retire copper landline service in rural communities. Riley expressed concern about the potential impact on residents who lack reliable cellular service, particularly seniors and those who depend on landlines during emergencies.

Riley said his office had requested information from Verizon and called for federal regulators to ensure that residents are not left without reliable telephone service.

Agriculture was another focus of the interview. Riley discussed his work on the House Agriculture Committee and amendments he said were included in farm legislation to support local farmers.

Among the measures he highlighted were improvements to irrigation systems, expanding markets for dairy products and increasing access to tractor safety equipment.

On healthcare, Riley discussed the challenges facing rural hospitals and medical providers. He criticized reductions in federal healthcare funding and highlighted efforts to secure funding for healthcare facilities across the district.

Housing affordability was also discussed, including legislation aimed at encouraging housing development in rural communities and limiting purchases of single-family homes by large institutional investors.

Riley also addressed immigration and border security. He called for changes to the immigration system, including reforms to agricultural worker visa programs, while discussing his concerns about federal immigration enforcement policies.

The interview also covered government ethics and campaign finance reform. Riley discussed legislation he introduced that would restrict corporate political contributions, establish congressional term limits and prohibit stock trading by members of Congress.

When asked why voters should choose him over Oberacker, Riley pointed to his legislative record, bipartisan work and efforts to address issues affecting upstate New York.

Watch the full interview to hear Riley discuss his campaign and priorities for another term representing New York’s 19th Congressional District.