On Monday, Governor Kathy Hochul made a bold statement regarding the possibility of Republican Representative Elise Stefanik running for governor in 2026, saying, “Bring it on.”
The Democratic governor emphasized that she isn’t intimidated by lawmakers like Stefanik (R-NY), who believes she’s in the “strongest position” in nearly two decades to become the first Republican leader of the Empire State.
“I’m looking forward to that fight, no matter who it is. It’s not decided yet, but I’m ready,” Hochul told CNN. She also suggested that GOP challengers would struggle due to the negative perceptions surrounding the party in New York, particularly mentioning former President Trump’s impact.
“Donald Trump has damaged the Republican brand in New York, so whoever runs will have that baggage… This contributes to people’s rising costs of living, loss of medical care, cuts to Medicaid, and decreased education funding,” Hochul asserted.
Although Stefanik hasn’t officially announced her candidacy, she has been seriously contemplating a run. Over the weekend, she outlined some “day 1” priorities she would focus on if she pursued the governorship, including issues related to taxes, education, crime, immigration, and energy.
Stefanik contrasted her experience with Hochul’s, noting, “Unlike Kathy Hochul, who lost a term in Congress, we have a track record of victories. We draw support not just from Republicans, but also from independents and a notable number of Democrats.”
Later, in an interview with Fox News, Stefanik criticized Hochul, calling her “the worst governor in America.” She emphasized that New Yorkers, regardless of party affiliation, are eager for new leadership that can bring common sense back to governance and mentioned the overwhelming support she has received.
