Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) has launched a gubernatorial campaign to replace Governor Kathy Hochul (D).
“Kathy Hochul is the Worst Governor in America,” Stefanik declared on X. “Under her failed leadership, New York is the most unaffordable state in the nation with the highest taxes, highest energy, utilities, rent, and grocery bills.”
“When New Yorkers were looking for leadership from our Governor, she bent the knee to the raging Defund the Police, Tax Hiking Communist causing catastrophe for New York families,” she wrote.
“I am running for Governor to make New York affordable and safe FOR ALL,” Stefanik declared. “Democrats, Republicans, and Independents will unify to save our state.” She urged Americans to “fire Hochul” and “save New York.”
“From the ashes of Kathy Hochul’s failed policies, New York will rise like we always do,” the campaign video’s narrator says. “The spirit of the Empire State cannot be broken. All we need is a courageous leader ready for the fight. Elise Stefanik will make New York affordable and safe.”
Hochul responded to Stefanik’s announcement, claiming the Republican is “running to deliver New York for Donald Trump and raise your costs.”
“Not on my watch,” she said. “My message to Trump’s ‘top ally’ — bring it on.”
New York State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar said the party is “thrilled” that Stefanik has entered the gubernatorial race.
“The Congresswoman will shake up the state with her energy, ideas, and vision, putting Gov. Kathy Hochul and her progressive/socialist colleagues on notice that the radical, leftward lurch of New York ends this November,” the statement read, adding, “Ms. Stefanik’s announcement is giving hope to millions of New Yorkers otherwise ready to flee to Florida, Texas, or North Carolina. Her candidacy tells them: ‘Not so fast.’ Wiser heads can still turn this carnival around.”
A recent poll revealed that Stefanik was tied with Hochul for a potential 2026 gubernatorial matchup. The poll showed Hochul at 43% support and Stefanik at 42%, with 15% of likely voters still undecided.
