Stefanik eyes NY gubernatorial race: ‘Strongest position to defeat’ Hochul
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) is contemplating a run for governor of New York in the upcoming 2026 election, arguing that she is in a strong position to defeat the incumbent, governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY).Hochul is seeking her first full term after narrowly winning her initial election against Republican Lee Zeldin in 2022. Stefanik highlighted her success in winning not only Republican support but also gaining the favor of independents and some Democrats, claiming to have a formidable donor base. Over the next couple of months, she plans to attend various fundraising events, although it remains unclear weather these funds will be directed toward a gubernatorial campaign or her re-election for her House seat. Hochul took office following the resignation of Andrew Cuomo in 2021 amid controversy, and as New York City approaches its mayoral election, Hochul has chosen not to endorse any candidates at this time.
Stefanik eyes NY gubernatorial race and touts she’s in ‘strongest position to defeat’ Hochul
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) cited her “record of winning” when asked about the likelihood that she will run for governor of her state in 2026.
Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) is wrapping up her first full term as governor in her second election to the position next year. Her first proper election proved to be a close battle as the Republican candidate Lee Zeldin lost to her by fewer than 10 points, the narrowest victory in the gubernatorial race since 1994.
Now, Stefanik is considering running herself, telling the New York Post she is “in the strongest position to defeat” Hochul. President Donald Trump recently retracted Stefanik’s nomination as U.N. ambassador to keep the slim majority in the House of Representatives.
“Unlike Kathy Hochul, who was defeated after one term in Congress, we have a record of winning — not just Republicans but winning independents and a fair percentage of Democrats,” Stefanik said. “I’m honored to have the most robust, most significant donor base of any Republican ever in the state of New York, and it is time that we work together as a team to save this state from the catastrophic policies.”
Over the next two months, Stefanik is slated to appear at dinners and speaking events to raise money. It remains to be seen whether that money will go toward a gubernatorial campaign or to her reelection to the House.
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Hochul became governor after serving as lieutenant governor to Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, which opened the door for Hochul to take over.
This year will see New York City elect a mayor. Incumbent Eric Adams is running for reelection, only this time as an independent after initially campaigning as a Democratic candidate. Hochul is committed to not offering an endorsement, as her predecessor has since announced his own candidacy for NYC mayor.
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