Rep. Mike Lawler has decided not to run for New York governor after many months of speculation.

Lawler will instead seek reelection to the House. He addressed the decision in an interview with News 12's Senior Reporter Tara Rosenblum.

"I know how important my seat is to being able to deliver results," Lawler said.

Lawler currently serves in New York's 17th Congressional District that includes Rockland and Putnam counties, as well as most of Westchester County and some of Dutchess County. The Republican has also been a member of the New York State Assembly.

"I actually love what I'm doing. I love being a member of Congress and representing the 17th Congressional District," said Lawler. "I'm born and raised in Rockland, lived their my whole life, worked throughout the whole Hudson Valley. So this district means a great deal to me."

Fellow Republicans Rep. Elise Stefanik and Nassau County Bruce Blakeman have also been discussed as possible contenders for New York governor.

"I think Elise owes it to the party, owes it to the people of the state to run," said Lawler.

Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul has already announced that she is running for a second term as governor.

"The fact is she can say whatever she wants. She is the worst governor," said Lawler in regard to Hochul. "New York leads the nation in out migration. We have the highest tax burden, the worst business climate. The quality of life is declining. People aren't leaving our state in droves because of the weather. They're leaving because they cannot afford to live in New York. And the disastrous policies that have been enacted have created a very difficult climate for hardworking taxpayers and that's why I fought so hard to lift the cap on SALT and provide real tax relief to New Yorkers starting next year."

Hochul responded to Lawler's comment with a shot of her own.

"Clearly he doesn't have the courage to stand up to me or to Donald Trump," said Hochul. "I'm not surprised, but all I know is not only will he not be governor, he won't be a congressman for much longer."