John Mannion, a two-term state Senator from the Syracuse area, has thrown his hat in the ring for Congress.

He’s vying for the Democratic party nomination to run against Rep. Brandon Williams in the always competitive 22nd Congressional District.

Williams, a Republican, is in his first term.

Capital Tonight asked Mannion why he’s leaving the state Senate after just two terms when he’s been deeply involved in heading up the Committee on Disabilities.

Mannion explained it has to do with his commitment to Central New York and the Mohawk Valley.

“What we’ve seen at the national level – the divisiveness and honestly, dysfunction – I believe that people haven’t seen that come out of me,” he explained. “I carry myself in a very non-toxic way, in a very bridge-building way.”

The Democratic primary for NY-22 is already getting crowded with Sarah Klee Hood, a DeWitt town councilor, and Clemmie Harris, a Utica University professor, having already announced their intention to run.

Because of his record in the state Senate and the fact that two moderate Central New York Assembly Members Al Stirpe and Bill Magnarelli are throwing their support behind Mannion, it would seem that he’s running as a moderate.

But when a reporter made that observation, the candidate pushed back.

“It really depends on the issue. And if you look at my legislative record, I have been supportive of many progressively minded initiatives, and they took the form of legislation,” Mannion said. “But also, I want to make sure that I represent everyone. And because my district is so down the middle, I think I did a good job of that, and I think that is resonating with all my constituents, not just those I share party affiliation with.”

Williams sent this emailed statement to Capital Tonight in response to a request for comment: “The Democratic Primary in NY-22 is shaping up to be filled with candidates trying to out-left one another on policies that have delivered New York State the highest taxes in the union, unsafe streets, and an exodus of people out of state,” said Williams. “I will continue to honorably love and serve Central NY and the Mohawk Valley with common sense solutions to the complex issues our nation faces—bringing back manufacturing jobs, increased infrastructure funding, lowering energy costs, and protecting our local families.”

“Senator John Mannion is a valuable member of our Majority Conference, and I wish him all the best as he embarks on his journey to run for Congress," state Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said. "His passion for public service and commitment to his constituents have been evident throughout his tenure. While we will miss his important contributions in the Senate when he departs, I have no doubt that Senator Mannion will continue to make a positive impact during his pursuit of higher office.”