David Wagenhauser has officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 Congressional race in New York’s 24th District, challenging incumbent Representative Claudia Tenney.
Wagenhauser, an Upstate New York native with diverse professional experiences, has served as a Public Interest/First Amendment Attorney in Washington, D.C., and was a Vice President in his family’s home care business. His political background includes a term as an elected Village Trustee in Brockport, NY.
His campaign launch was marked by the release of a video and the activation of his website, DaveforUpstate.com, where he criticizes Tenney for prioritizing partisan battles and media appearances over addressing the issues faced by her constituents.
Wagenhauser positions himself as a stark contrast to Tenney’s combative and ultra-partisan approach, emphasizing the need for cooperative problem-solving in Congress.
Among his priorities — working toward common solutions, focusing on substantial government reform, ending stock trading by members of Congress, putting a stop to gerrymandering, and getting term-limits. Wagenhauser also says making government more efficient is a significant priority.
Addressing key issues such as Social Security, Medicare, and the high cost of prescription drugs, Wagenhauser accuses Tenney, a member of the Republican Study Committee, of intending to cut these vital programs. He also criticizes her opposition to drug cost reforms and highlights her financial support from corporate interests, including pharmaceutical companies. Wagenhauser pledges to advocate for job creation, supporting legislation like the “CHIPS” act to bring employment opportunities to Upstate New York, contrasting this with Tenney’s vote against the bill.
His campaign aims to resonate with Upstate New York values of integrity, respect, and community support. The 24th Congressional District, which Wagenhauser seeks to represent, encompasses several counties in New York, including Cayuga, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, and others.