We're less than two months away from mid-term elections, but the race for the next representative of the 22nd congressional district is just getting started. After much anticipation, Congressman Maurice Hinchey made his run for a 10th term official Wednesday. But as our Janelle Burrell tells us, he faces a tough challenge from a familiar face.

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BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- National polls point to republicans reclaiming the House of Representatives in November, but democratic Congressman Maurice Hinchey says constituents should stick with him and his party for one key reason.

"Jobs are being created in a lot of places across the country. But particularly here," said Hinchey.

Hinchey was joined by local democratic leaders Wednesday as he announced his bid for a 10th term as the U.S. representative for the 22nd district.

"I'm asking people to look into what I've done," said Hinchey. "Look into the context of the abilities that I have and particularly the opportunities that I have as a senior member of the appropriations committee."

He points to the millions in federal dollars he's secured for the region for research, government contracts and infrastructure. But his opponent contests it has done nothing to help the region's biggest challenge.

"Manufacturing jobs are down 50 percent in this area, so all the pork barrel projects in the world haven't filled that gap," said republican George Phillips.

This is republican Phillips' second go at challenging Hinchey for the seat. He blames his 2008 loss to the republican unpopularity.

"When you're the party in control and things aren't going well, you're going to get blamed for it," Phillips said.

This time around, he says voter discontent weighs in his favor.

"The biggest thing we get when we're knocking on doors is, 'George Phillips, is he an incumbent? No? Okay, I'm voting for him," said Phillips.

Hinchey says getting the economy back on track takes time and voters' discernment should not be underestimated.

"The people of this country are wise," said Hinchey. "They are going to be able to separate the false information that is being sent out to them from the real honest facts."

But he admits, like all democrats this election season, he has his work cut out for him.