Morelle and McIntyre Debate District 25 Issues
The congressional candidates met in Rochester to discuss immigration, inflation, and local energy infrastructure.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Immigration
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Representative Joe Morelle and county legislator Virginia McIntyre squared off in a debate hosted by WROC-TV. The candidates discussed policy positions regarding immigration, energy infrastructure, and inflation.
Why it matters
The debate highlights differing approaches to regional and national challenges ahead of Election Day. Voters in the 25th Congressional District are weighing these platforms as they prepare to head to the polls.
The 25th Congressional District covers areas including Monroe and Ontario counties. Immigration concerns were highlighted by reports of ICE detentions in the Brockport and Mount Morris communities.
The players
Joe Morelle
He is the incumbent representative for New York's 25th Congressional District and has served in this capacity since 2018.
Virginia McIntyre
She is a current county legislator who is challenging the incumbent for a seat in Congress.
The details
Joe Morelle, who has held the seat since 2018, faced off against Virginia McIntyre on the debate stage. The discussion included Morelle's past work on energy deals dating back to 2008 and current concerns regarding local immigration enforcement.
Timeline
2008: Joe Morelle participated in brokering an energy deal.
2018: Joe Morelle began his tenure as representative for the 25th Congressional District.
October 29, 2026: The candidates participated in a debate in Rochester.
Political Context
The debate discussion on ICE enforcement in Brockport follows the enforcement protocols established under the Immigration and Nationality Act. The candidates offer opposing views on how local authorities should coordinate with federal immigration enforcement frameworks.
The election will determine who represents district residents on issues of energy and federal immigration policy. Voters should prepare for Election Day to cast ballots that reflect their preference for these candidates.
The takeaway
Voters should review the candidates' specific policy proposals on infrastructure and border security before voting. Understanding these stances provides clarity on how each candidate plans to address district-specific economic and security concerns.
Further reading
Find more coverage on regional policy trends in our Immigration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHAM.
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