Two candidates in one of the country's most closely watched races are facing off.

In a News 12 debate, Republican Rep. Mike Lawler and Democrat Cait Conley go head-to-head in the race for New York's 17th Congressional District seat.

The candidates tackled key issues like artificial intelligence, affordability and immigration. The debate was both cordial and contentious at times in the News 12 studio.

The statements below include closing remarks from the candidates.

"I promise you I will fight every day to root out the corruption in Washington by banning insider stock trading by members of Congress and the White House, by implementing term limits and lowering costs for our families, lowering taxes for our families because it's just too damn hard for families like my own in the Hudson Valley," said Conley.

"I've fought tirelessly to stand up and fight for this district and deliver for it. We delivered the largest tax cut in American history. I closed over 10,000 constituent cases. We've brought back over $120 million to the district. I've passed over two dozen bills, 17 of which have been signed into law. When I agree with the president, I say it. When I disagree with him, I say it," said Lawler.

The race itself could have major implications when it comes to the balance of power in the House.

You can watch the debate at 8 p.m. on News 12.