[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 182 (Friday, October 31, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1026]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING SARATOGA COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY KAREN HEGGEN

                                  _____
                                 

                         HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 31, 2025

  Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Saratoga County 
District Attorney Karen Heggen for her decades of service, leadership, 
and commitment to justice in her home community.
  A Malta native, DA Karen Heggen has served in the Saratoga County 
District Attorney's Office since 1993, beginning her career as an 
Assistant District Attorney and advancing through the ranks to the 
office's second-highest position before being elected District Attorney 
in 2014. Over more than thirty years, she has dedicated herself to 
protecting the people of Saratoga County with professionalism, 
compassion, and integrity.
  As the first woman ever elected District Attorney in Saratoga County, 
Karen made history while setting a standard of excellence that inspired 
those who followed. Her tenure as DA was marked by both achievement and 
resilience during a time of significant change in New York's criminal 
justice system. Under her leadership, the office maintained one of the 
state's strongest records for case integrity and public trust despite 
the challenges of bail reform, discovery reform, and parole reform. Her 
steady hand ensured that Saratoga County avoided the disruptions that 
plagued many other jurisdictions.
  Throughout her career, Karen focused not on politics or recognition, 
but on people. She emphasized teamwork, collaboration, and justice 
rooted in fairness. Her approach reflected her belief that a district 
attorney's role is not merely to prosecute, but to pursue what is 
right--to balance the interests of victims, public safety, and the 
accused. Her leadership earned deep respect from law enforcement, 
attorneys, and community members alike.
  Karen leaves behind a legacy of fairness, compassion, and leadership 
that will continue to shape the Saratoga County District Attorney's 
Office for years to come. Karen now looks forward to spending more time 
with her family, who have supported her through long nights and 
demanding years.
  On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to 
recognize District Attorney Karen Heggen for her trailblazing career, 
her lifelong service to the people of Saratoga County, and the example 
she has set for future generations of public servants.

                          ____________________