“For too long, Washington has forgotten the people of Upstate New York,” he said in a statement. “As a Marine and a public servant, I’ve dedicated my life to defending our freedoms, fighting for our communities, and putting people before politics. It’s time to send a servant leader to Washington who will always put Upstate First.”

First elected in 2018, Smullen currently represents New York’s 118th Assembly District. He previously led three combat tours in Afghanistan while serving in the United States Marine Corps for 24 years and helped shape defense strategy at the Pentagon.

Smullen was appointed by President Donald Trump during his first term to be a member of the President’s Commission on White House Fellows from 2018 to 2021.

In his campaign announcement, the New York Republican vowed to work alongside Trump in Congress if elected next year.

“I served under President Trump’s leadership and share his vision for a strong America, secure borders, and an economy that works for working people,” he said. “In Congress, I’ll continue that mission — fighting alongside President Trump and building on the incredible success of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, our next Governor, to deliver results for the families of Upstate New York.”

Smullen expressed interest in Stefanik’s seat when Trump appointed her for the position of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations earlier this year. The congresswoman’s nomination was later withdrawn by the White House because of the House GOP’s narrow majority. Smullen later asked people to consider him for the House seat if Stefanik ran for governor.

She ultimately did end up running, announcing her decision to challenge incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) after New York City’s mayoral election this month.

Stefanik is currently the only Republican running against Hochul. However, she may attract GOP primary competition from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman if he chooses to enter the race.

Regarding the race for Stefanik’s to-be-vacated seat, Republicans Joe Pinion and Anthony Constantino are considering throwing their hats in the ring.

STEFANIK RIPS NEW YORK GUBERNATORIAL RIVAL HOCHUL FOR ‘HEARTLESSLY’ CLOSING PRISON BEFORE HOLIDAYS

On the Democratic side, Blake Gendebien and Dylan Hewitt have already declared their long-shot bids for the solidly Republican-held seat. Stefanik has represented New York’s 21st Congressional District since 2015.

Smullen is expected to deliver a campaign announcement later Thursday at the Holiday Inn hotel in Johnstown, New York.