Thomas Ludwig, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces lieutenant colonel, has announced his candidacy for the U.S. House seat in New York's 3rd Congressional District. The seat was previously held by Rep. George Santos. Ludwig's entrance into the political arena brings a new dynamic to the district's representation.
Thomas Ludwig, a seasoned military veteran with an extensive background in special operations, is seeking election in New York's 3rd Congressional District, aiming to address various critical national and international issues.
Ludwig's military career, marked by diverse global deployments and high-stakes operations, provides a unique perspective on national security and foreign policy. His post-military political ambitions are shaped by his experiences, and he brings a distinct approach to several key issues.
One of the central themes of Ludwig's campaign is his focus on China, which he perceives as America's foremost threat. His concerns are grounded in China's military expansion, aggressive foreign policy, and technological advancements. Ludwig's military insights fuel his apprehensions about China's intentions on the global stage.
Immigration is another pivotal issue for Ludwig. He advocates for stringent border security measures, coupled with a more nuanced approach towards the source countries of migration. This perspective reflects his belief in a balanced strategy addressing immediate and root causes of immigration challenges.
Ludwig’s approach to combating Mexican drug cartels showcases his preference for covert operations over conventional military tactics. He views the cartels as a significant threat, not just to Mexico, but also as a destabilizing force affecting U.S. border security.
On the domestic front, Ludwig proposes empowering police forces and revising policies like cashless bail, which he believes contribute to the current crime rates. His stance is informed by his understanding of national security and law enforcement dynamics.
Ludwig’s military journey began before the 9/11 attacks, a period that shaped his subsequent career. He has served in various roles, including deployments in Iraq, South America, and Europe, as part of the U.S. Army Special Forces.
His educational background, with academic achievements from Stanford and Harvard, complements his military experience. Ludwig believes this combination of military and academic credentials equips him uniquely for legislative responsibilities.
Ludwig's decision to enter politics was influenced by his extensive military career and a desire to bring change at the national level. His transition from military to political life marks a new chapter in his service to the country.
The vacancy in New York's 3rd Congressional District, created by the expulsion of Rep. George Santos in January 2023, allowed Ludwig to step into the political arena. His announcement to run for this seat came shortly after he retired from the military in February 2023.
Ludwig’s views on international affairs, particularly concerning China and Russia, are influenced by his military background. He stresses the importance of strategic thinking and long-term planning in dealing with global adversaries.
Speaking about China, Ludwig expressed concern over their naval capabilities and aggressive tactics. He emphasized the need for the U.S. to adapt its strategies to counter these threats effectively.
Regarding the situation in Ukraine, Ludwig advocates for a diplomatic resolution while maintaining pressure on Russia. He sees the conflict as a complex international issue requiring careful, strategic handling.
Ludwig commented on China’s growing military might.
"Their navy is the largest in the world, and they’re just aggressive and they have the numbers. And importantly, they’re trying to change the rules-based order. They’re trying to get that world off the dollar standard."
Ludwig also shared his views on Mexican drug cartels, describing the dire situation in Mexico and the need for a strategic approach to combat this threat.
His domestic policies are focused on strengthening law enforcement and revising certain judicial practices, which he believes are essential for reducing crime and ensuring public safety.
The candidacy of Thomas Ludwig brings a fresh perspective to the political landscape, one that is deeply informed by a career dedicated to national security and a thorough understanding of global dynamics.
