He served in this capacity until he resigned to run for the United States Senate, ultimately losing the election.
[1][5] Two years later, he unsuccessfully ran against future Mayor of New York City John Lindsay to represent New York's 17th congressional district in the United States House of Representatives.
[6][7] His last candidacy for public office was for Lieutenant Governor of New York, as the running mate of Conservative gubernatorial candidate Paul Adams.
[3] He served in a federal position, appointed by President Ronald Reagan, and was confirmed by the United States Senate.
[9] O'Doherty operated his private law practice and real estate businesses with his wife, Mary.