Representative Lawler Calls for Unity Amidst Controversy Over Campaign Contributions
New York Representative Mike Lawler recently penned an op-ed in the New York Times, urging political leaders to reduce divisive rhetoric and work towards bridging political divides. However, this plea for unity comes shortly after Lawler made a financial contribution to a candidate embroiled in controversy over inciting a riot.
According to campaign finance records, Lawler’s campaign contributed $1,000 in October 2025 to Erin Crowley, a candidate running for re-election to the Putnam County Legislature. At the time of the donation, Crowley was also serving as Lawler’s deputy district director.
In July 2025, LoHud reported that Crowley’s phone number was discovered in a private Signal chat group named Fight Lawler. The group aimed to organize peaceful protests highlighting Lawler’s political record.
Members of Fight Lawler allege that Crowley joined their group under a pseudonym, claiming to be a fellow activist. She is accused of encouraging disruptive actions at a forthcoming Lawler town hall meeting in Somers, NY, despite her official role as a Lawler employee.
During the May 5 meeting, Crowley, present in her capacity as a Lawler staff member, reportedly admonished attendees for their behavior while simultaneously promoting more disruptive actions in the digital chat. The event escalated to a chaotic scene, culminating in a 64-year-old woman being forcibly removed by law enforcement, as detailed by Rolling Stone.
Maureen Morrissey, co-founder of Fight Lawler, expressed dismay, stating, “She infiltrated our Signal group. We are so sickened by it.”
Crowley’s actions drew widespread criticism from both sides of the political aisle. Progressive organizations, including the New York Working Families Party and Indivisible, demanded Crowley’s resignation from her legislative post. Republican colleagues, such as Paul Jonke, expressed disappointment, while party activist Frank Ciano urged Lawler to dismiss her from his team.
Despite these calls for action, Lawler retained Crowley on his staff and she successfully secured another term in the legislature, benefitting from Lawler’s financial backing.
As Lawler prepares for his re-election campaign this year, he is perceived as one of the more vulnerable House Republicans on the ballot.
The article Mike Lawler donated to candidate behind town hall chaos was originally published on American Journal News.
