BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

There won’t be two St. Lawrence County candidates running in the 21st Congressional District.

Canton businessman Josh Parker has been considering challenging Democrat Blake Gendebien on the Republican line to replace Elise Stefanik, who is now running for Governor.

However, on Friday afternoon his associates issued the following statement.

“After many thoughtful conversations, Josh has decided not to enter the race. He is deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and encouragement he has received across the district and is committed to keeping the seat in Republican hands.

In January Parker was among the candidates being considered as a replacement for Stefanik.

During an interview with North Country This Week he said his interest in running was creating a better future for his own four children as well his potential constituents.

“I have been given this incredible opportunity to live the American Dream. I believe that if good people with real world experience and common sense don’t step up, we could lose the country we love.“

At the time Parker said New York is an incubator of the radical left’s worst ideas.

“The results speak for themselves. Our factories have closed, our family farms have emptied, and tens of thousands of illegal immigrants have flooded across our stretch of northern border. As I raise a family and grow a business, I am up close and personal to these issues every single day.” 

Parker says Stefanik has set a high bar, and one he’d be honored to follow.

Although no official announcements have been made by Republican candidates yet, Amsterdam businessman Anthony Constantino and State Assemblyman Robert Smullen have signaled interest.

Meanwhile, Democrats are already looking at a primary with Glens Falls Democrat Dylan Hewitt announcing his intent to run against Gendebien.

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