Key Facts

• Chris Gallant is a 37-year-old Democratic candidate for New York's 1st Congressional District.
• Photos showing Gallant in BDSM outfits from a private photo session appeared online, originally on a fetish retailer’s website from 2011 to 2020.
• Gallant’s attorney stated the photos were taken with consent during a private shoot and were not meant for wide publication.
• Gallant requested the retailer remove the photos once he began considering public office.
• Another photo showed Gallant working as a bartender in underwear at a themed event on Fire Island, which is part of the district he seeks to represent.
• Gallant’s attorney said these images do not reflect his work or character and called attempts to use them against him politically misleading.
• Gallant has military experience in the New York Army National Guard and has worked as an air traffic controller and volunteer firefighter.
• He is challenging Republican incumbent Nick LaLota, who currently has a higher chance of reelection but faces mixed public approval ratings.
• Polling suggests President Donald Trump’s standing may influence voter attitudes in the district.