News 12 is taking a closer look at the candidates in one of the most consequential Democratic congressional primaries in the nation.

The race for New York's 16th Congressional District pits two-term Rep. Jamaal Bowman against Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

Rye Democrat Latimer says he pledges to bring his A-game as primary day approaches.

The two-term Westchester County executive and Mount Vernon native is fighting to convince voters in Westchester and the Bronx to unseat Bowman.

"I've resided in Westchester for almost all of my life, 65 of my years, and I've seen other people serve in Congress representing Westchester County. So, I know that there's national implications because the story is being framed based on certain high-profile foreign policy issues," he says.

Those policy issues include Gaza and the path toward a cease-fire.

"To me, the seminal act that precedes talking about a cease-fire are the hostages that were taken on that day of Oct. 7. These are people who were snatched out of their home. They are civilians. They were not military people. They're being held captive, and they are the fundamental key that has to be unlocked before we can have the movement toward peace that we seek," he says.

A self-described "progressive champion," Latimer believes his greatest advantage in the race is his deep knowledge of the district.

He's a former Rye City Council member, county legislator, state Assembly member and state senator, known best for his grassroots style of politicking and also for holding one of the longest winning streaks of any elected official in state history.

Latimer says if Bowman wins, he won't stand in the way of a Democratic nominee and that he intends to support the ticket.

In the meantime, he says he will keep his eye on the ball, with the ultimate goal of taking on the GOP in November. Watch Latimer and Bowman square off in a debate Monday at 8:30 p.m. on News 12 and News 12 New York. The event is being sponsored by News 12 and the Business Council of Westchester and moderated by our own Tara Rosenblum.