Elise Stefanik Gains Momentum in Gubernatorial Race
Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is attracting significant backing from conservative grassroots groups as she aims for the role of governor in New York.
This Tuesday, eight conservative advocacy organizations in upstate New York publicly endorsed her candidacy for governor, according to exclusive reports. Stefanik is running against Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in the Republican primary, despite state GOP leaders already rallying behind him. Both candidates are looking to challenge Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul in the 2026 election.
The groups supporting Stefanik include Moms for Liberty of Wayne County, Fight for Families in Monroe County, Freedom Fighters of Western New York, and several others. Notably, the New York State Rifle Association has also thrown its weight behind her campaign.
These endorsements add to her argument that Blakeman faces an uphill battle in securing the Republican nomination. Stefanik has garnered over 75% support from county chairs within the New York state Republican Party, positioning her as the likely nominee.
Due to this overwhelming support, Blakeman may need to gather signatures to appear on the primary ballot, as per New York state election rules.
“Upstate conservatives are fed up with Downstate RINOs trying to control our thinking and lives—while they quite literally undermine our well-being. This man lacks a genuine path to victory. With Elise, we have a unique chance to change this state,” stated Dave Buchin, political director of the Upstate Conservative Coalition.
In addition, Jennifer Williams, chair of Liberty Moms of Wayne County, expressed gratitude towards Stefanik, noting that her focus on accountability, choice, and parental rights is essential for New York’s future.
Recent polling indicates that Stefanik is leading the Republican primary race. A Siena College poll found that 48% of registered Republicans support her, while only 17% favor Blakeman. However, both candidates face a challenge from Hochul, who, despite facing some unpopularity, is still seeking re-election and leading in head-to-head matchups against both Republicans.
Republicans also have to contend with a significant Democratic advantage in New York, where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans by a substantial margin.
Both Stefanik and Blakeman are vying for the endorsement of former President Trump, who has praised them but has not yet indicated a preference for one over the other. “Everyone knows Elise, and she’s doing great… New York could definitely use her,” Trump remarked during a recent gathering of Republicans.
Blakeman, on the other hand, pointed to his recent re-election victory in Long Island as evidence of his competitiveness against Hochul in the general election.
