With Eldridge bowing out, Democrats have some options among local officials, including Ulster County Executive Mike Hein. Former state Sen. Terry Gipson has also been mentioned as a potential candidate. On the Republican side, Gibson is expected to retire at the end of his current term as he considers a run for statewide office in 2018, most likely for governor. Republicans mentioned to replace Gibson in Congress include Assemblyman Peter Lopez, Assemblyman Steve McLaughlin and Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro.