Westchester County Executive George Latimer formally entered the race for New York’s 16th Congressional District on Monday. He did this by filing federal paperwork to declare his candidacy and establish a fundraising committee. This move follows months of speculation and hints. This includes a recent trip to Israel supposedly marking the nexus of his campaign. Latimer himself has made no public announcement to launch his campaign as of yet.

Latimer’s candidacy sets the stage for a heated Democratic primary. The race will pit the 70-year-old Latimer against Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a 47-year-old progressive who has represented the 16th District for two terms. He secured the seat in 2020 after defeating longtime Rep. Eliot Engel in a primary.

The district, encompassing some of Westchester County and a portion of the Bronx, heavily leans Democratic. Although, a redistricting process is currently underway with Latimer’s Deputy Executive, Ken Jenkins, leading that effort.

Latimer has held various elected positions, including state senator and county legislator over his 35-year political career. He was set to leave his current role as Westchester County Executive at the end of his current term, restricted by law from seeking another.

While many are eager to see Bowman removed over his criticism of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, a great schism now exists in the Democratic district. The Democratic majority in Congress fell in 2022 because of losses in New York like in CD17 to Mike Lawler. Now, many worry that money and energy to primary a popular incumbent may risk these losses again.

Regardless of these reservations, Latimer is running. Therefore, the Federal power of the Democratic Party may hinge on the ripple effects of a race for this otherwise inconsequential district.