President Trump recently expressed his support for Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) via social media, endorsing his reelection campaign ahead of next year’s voting. With Democrats eyeing Lawler’s swing district in the midterms, Trump’s backing is significant.
There’s speculation that Lawler, who joined the House in 2023, might also be considering a run for the New York governorship next year.
“Rep. Mike Lawler is a powerful champion and a very effective representative for the great people of New York’s 17th Congressional District!” Trump stated.
Lawler expressed gratitude for the president’s support, highlighting Trump’s commitment to New York’s key issues in a statement his campaign provided.
According to Lawler, he’ll make a final decision regarding a gubernatorial candidacy in June.
He shared with Fox 5 NY that his choice would hinge on whether he can win in a state dominated by Democratic governors for nearly two decades.
“We go through this process of assessing the condition and data and see if there is a real path,” he mentioned. “I’m not looking for a mission doomed to fail. If you approach it strategically, I believe there’s a path to winning.”
Since taking office in 2021, Governor Kathy Hochul (D) has been a prominent figure, succeeding Andrew Cuomo (D) who resigned. Hochul secured her position against GOP candidate Lee Zeldin in 2022 and is campaigning for reelection with expectations of a competitive Democratic primary.
More Republicans, including Lawler, have shown interest in the race, particularly following a closely contested Hochul-Zeldin election three years ago.
Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), a staunch Trump supporter, indicated she is “strongly considering” a run for governor after her recent appointment as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.
“I absolutely am strongly considering it because of the crisis that Kathy Hochul and the single-party Democratic control have brought to New Yorkers,” she remarked, noting the strong public response she has encountered.
Back in her own district, the Republican stronghold is facing signs of vulnerability, particularly as the GOP heads into the midterms where every seat in swing districts counts.
Both Lawler and Stefanik’s positions could face risks if they choose to pursue gubernatorial aspirations instead of Congressional roles.
Despite losing in his state during the 2024 elections, Trump received increasing support among New Yorkers, including backing for Long Island Republican Bruce Blakeman’s reelection as Nassau County executive. Blakeman is also rumored to be eyeing a run for governor.
