HEUVELTON -- Senator Patty Ritche, R-Heuvelton, is endorsing two people seeking re-election to North Country state and federal office.

She is backing Congresswoman Elise Stefanik for re-election to the North Country congressional seat, and Assemblyman Mark Walczyk, R-Watertown, who is running for re-election to the 116th State Assembly seat.

“For two years now, Assemblyman Mark Walczyk has proven himself to be a fighter for the North Country and our values,” Ritchie said in a prepared statement. “I am continually impressed with the way he always gives 110 percent for our region and know he will put forth that same work ethic in a second term. I wholeheartedly endorse Assemblyman Walczyk’s candidacy and look forward to continuing to work alongside him to deliver results for the hardworking people of Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties.”

"Senator Patty Ritchie has been a champion of Northern New York values and I'm honored to join her in fighting for North Country residents in Albany," Walczyk said in a prepared statement. "From high water on the lake and river to clean water at your tap, whether working with bipartisan coalitions or fighting NYC politicians for our fair share of state resources, Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties are well served by Senator Ritchie and I'm honored to receive her endorsement."

“Elise is a tireless advocate for North Country workers and has a strong focus on the local issues that actually matter to our communities,” Ritchie said in a prepared statement from the Stefanik campaign. “During this turbulent time, full of uncertainty and unprecedented challenges, Elise has been by our side every step of the way providing relief to families, farmers, and small businesses in our district. She stands with our law enforcement and truly 'Backs the Blue.' Now more than ever, we need her leadership in Congress to revitalize our economy and continue to bring jobs back to Upstate New York.”

“I’m honored to earn the endorsement from my friend, Senator Patty Ritchie,” Stefanik said in a prepared statement from her re-election campaign. “Patty works hard to serve the communities she represents and is a true partner to me on issues important to our region: our shared Northern border, supporting our law enforcement, and delivering real results to the North Country. Patty understands the partnership between federal and state and local officials is critical to securing wins for our constituents. I’m grateful to earn her endorsement and proud to call her a friend.”