If you aren’t familiar with New York, you may assume that the state is solid blue. That isn’t necessarily the reality. Former President Donald Trump’s Long Island rally last month told me as much, where MAGA fervor was on full display.

While New York City and other metropolitan areas are safely Democrat, there are 10 Republicans representing different parts of the state in the U.S. House. In 2022, New York Republicans picked up three seats and helped give the GOP control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

This year’s election could be just as consequential.

There are seven competitive U.S. House races in New York, per The New York Times. Two of those races, both rematches from 2022, are considered toss-ups. There’s no question that the Empire State will go for Vice President Kamala Harris in November. But if the Republican incumbents in these districts can hold their seats, New York could very well be the reason the GOP holds its majority in the House.

The Republicans are trying to tie their Democratic opponents to indicted New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul, who's facing record low approval ratings. Democrats, meanwhile, are focusing on their opponents' records on abortion access and public safety.

If Harris wins in November but Democrats fail to take the House, it'll be impossible for her to pass legislation, like her economic plan or codifying the provisions of Roe v. Wade. If Trump wins and Republicans keep the House, it could pave the way for disaster. While the Democrats are starting to........

© USA TODAY