Stefanik hits back at Hochul as she mulls gubernatorial bid – Washington Examiner
In a recent exchange, Rep.Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY) positioned themselves for a potential confrontation in the upcoming 2026 New York gubernatorial race. Stefanik, who is anticipated to be a frontrunner for the republican nomination, responded to hochul’s criticism regarding her voting record on healthcare, specifically regarding the potential closure of hospitals in her district. Hochul accused Stefanik of jeopardizing healthcare for constituents to align with Donald Trump. In return,Stefanik countered by criticizing Hochul’s handling of Medicaid,claiming it is indeed poorly managed and wastes resources. She hinted at an imminent proclamation regarding her candidacy, indicating her commitment to entering the race. The exchange signifies a growing rivalry as both politicians prepare for the electoral battle ahead.
Stefanik hits back at Hochul as she mulls gubernatorial bid: ‘Welcome to the fight’
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) and Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) exchanged shots on Friday in a potential preview of the hostilities in the 2026 New York gubernatorial race.
Stefanik is expected to be the front-runner for the Republican nomination in the race if she declares her campaign. There’s been some questions whether Hochul is vulnerable because a recent poll showed 36% of New York voters want her re-elected.
“Elise Stefanik voted to put five hospitals in her district on the chopping block, endangering her own constituents’ lives, health, and jobs — all to serve Donald Trump,” Hochul said in a rare opening shot on Friday. “I won’t stand for it. I’m fighting like hell to save New Yorkers’ health care.”
Stefanik quickly shot back, telling Hochul, “Welcome to the fight.”
She first pointed out that Hochul was “exposed” when the House questioned sanctuary state governors including Hochul and Govs. JB Pritzker (D-IL) and Tim Walz (D-MN). She then said she has strengthened Medicaid while Hochul oversees “the worst run” Medicaid program in New York.
“Kathy gives Medicaid to ILLEGALS putting New Yorkers most vulnerable LAST,” she posted on X. “NY’s Medicaid program is rampant with tens of billions of waste, fraud, and abuse under Kathy’s watch. Oh and Kathy, your numbers in rural NY are plummeting (just like they are everywhere else). I have been nationally recognized as the TOP advocate to deliver results for rural hospitals due to my work for hospitals in my district #NY21.”
“PS – Tag me next time,” Stefanik concluded. She later mocked Hochul for a tweet schedule that forces her to “tweet on the Communist Mayor who just won in your Democrat Party in NYC,” referring to state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani.
STEFANIK MOUNTS ‘SHADOW CAMPAIGN’ FOR NEW YORK GOVERNOR AFTER UN LETDOWN
Stefanik also hinted at a gubernatorial announcement, which is expected to be soon.
“When I have an announcement to make, believe me you’ll know [Kathy Hochul],” she said.
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