During a congressional debate on September 28, 2026, the parents of an 18-year-old girl, Sheridan Gorman, who was killed by an undocumented immigrant, questioned Republican Rep. Mike Lawler and Democratic candidate Cait Conley regarding New York's sanctuary law. The Gormans called into the televised debate on News 12 to ask about the candidates' positions on federal legislation aimed at overturning state sanctuary laws. Sheridan was shot on March 19, 2026, by Jose Medina, an undocumented Venezuelan migrant with prior law enforcement encounters.
Tom Gorman asked the candidates if they would support legislation to repeal sanctuary laws, which prevent local law enforcement from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Conley expressed that Sheridan's murder was "inexcusable" but did not directly answer whether she would support repealing the sanctuary law. She emphasized the importance of national security and criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Lawler responded by stating that Conley supports the sanctuary law and reiterated his opposition to it, advocating for federal legislation to end such policies. Both candidates also discussed various issues during the debate, including the economy, energy costs, and immigration. They agreed on certain topics, such as opposing the $9 congestion toll for entering Manhattan.
Conley criticized Lawler's support for budget cuts to Medicaid and social services, while Lawler defended his position on tax deductions for state and local taxes. The candidates also expressed support for Israel and debated energy policies, with Lawler advocating for nuclear power and Conley supporting renewable energy initiatives. The debate highlighted the competitive nature of the race in the 17th Congressional District, which is seen as a key battleground for control of the House of Representatives.