Former President Donald Trump has officially endorsed Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in the race for New York governor, just one day after Rep. Elise Stefanik announced she was ending her own bid.
In a message shared on Truth Social, Trump praised Blakeman as a loyal ally, calling him “MAGA all the way” and emphasizing that Blakeman has supported him from the start. Trump expressed strong confidence in Blakeman’s chances, stating that he has his “complete and total endorsement” and framing the race as an opportunity to restore New York’s political direction.
Stefanik had long been viewed as the Republican Party’s strongest potential challenger to Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in the 2026 election. However, the dynamic shifted earlier this month when Blakeman entered the race, creating uncertainty within GOP ranks. Trump had previously spoken favorably about both candidates but ultimately chose not to back Stefanik.
Adding to the complexity, Stefanik’s political standing has been unsettled over the past year. Her nomination for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations was withdrawn amid concerns about maintaining the Republican Party’s narrow majority in the House. When she announced her withdrawal from the gubernatorial race, she also confirmed she would not seek reelection to Congress.
Recent polling suggests Blakeman faces an uphill battle. A Siena College poll released this week shows Governor Hochul holding a double-digit lead over him in a hypothetical matchup, highlighting the challenges Republicans face statewide in New York.
Blakeman has recently appeared alongside Trump, including attending a Hanukkah reception at the White House. Responding to the endorsement on X, Blakeman said he felt “grateful and blessed” to have Trump’s support as the campaign moves forward.
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