The 17th Congressional District, which includes Rockland, Putnam and parts of Westchester and Dutchess counties, will now be represented by a Republican.

Incumbent Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney conceded to Republican Mike Lawler, marking the first time the chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee lost a reelection bid in 40 years.

Lawler delivered his victory speech on the steps of the Rockland County Courthouse surrounded by family, friends and dozens of supporters.

"Folks understood that we need to restore balance and common sense at every level of government, and I am excited by the opportunity to go to Washington on behalf of this community and this district and stand up for our families," says Lawler.

Lawler says he will work to address crime and pocketbook issues while serving in Washington, D.C. He says his first order of business is to introduce legislation to lift the state and local tax cap.