Trump Endorses Constantino in NY Primary Race
ALBANY – On Tuesday, President Trump made waves by endorsing entrepreneur Anthony Constantino in the Republican primary to succeed upstate Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.).
Constantino, who has been described as somewhat unconventional, is competing against state Representative Robert Smullen (R-Montgomery) in the June primary.
Trump took to Truth Social to share his endorsement, stating, “I am honored to endorse Anthony Constantino, America’s First Patriot, who is running to represent the great people of New York’s 21st Congressional District.”
He also noted Constantino’s support from prominent figures within the MAGA movement, including Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Roger Stone. “Anthony was a tremendous supporter,” Trump continued, mentioning a “controversial” pro-Trump sign that Constantino had erected, which ignited legal disputes back in 2024.
The endorsement diverges from the preferences of New York’s Republican leadership, such as state party chairman Ed Cox, along with members of 12 of the 15 district committees who lean towards supporting Smullen.
In response to the endorsement, Smullen voiced concerns. He claimed a consultant, who is affiliated with Constantino, misled Trump into making a hasty decision. “I think the president made a mistake,” he said, emphasizing the need for Trump to be informed with accurate details.
Smullen, a retired Marine colonel and Conservative Party nominee, criticized Constantino for allegedly spending $4 million on self-promotion instead of focusing on genuine connections within the district. He expressed doubts about Constantino’s fitness for office.
Regardless of the June primary results, Smullen will appear on the November ballot, and he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of running on a third-party line until then.
Constantino commented on his endorsement, expressing gratitude for the meeting with Trump and expressing confidence in winning both the primary and the general election. “I look forward to making everyone who supported me proud when I become a member of Congress,” he stated.
