Rep. Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, is eyeing a run for governor in 2026. Sources close to her confirmed this news to Fox News Digital. Stefanik, who currently serves as the chairwoman of House Republican Leadership, previously withdrew from consideration for the role of U.N. Ambassador to maintain Republican numbers in the House.
Stefanik has strong support from allies of former President Donald Trump, who has praised her as a valuable ally. In her congressional district, she has consistently outperformed Trump in elections, winning with 62% of the vote in November. This track record could help her appeal to swing voters in New York.
Recently, Stefanik criticized Governor Kathy Hochul, saying her approval ratings are low and calling for her ouster in the next election. She described Hochul as the "Worst Governor in America," citing issues like high taxes and crime rates as reasons for her discontent with the current administration. In a statement, she emphasized the need for change in New York.
Stefanik is not the only Republican considering a run for governor. Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman are also weighing their options. The Republican primary is expected to be competitive, especially as candidates try to align themselves with Trump’s agenda.
Hochul, the incumbent governor, faces challenges from her own party, including potential primary threats from her lieutenant governor and other Democrats. The political landscape in New York is shifting, and Republicans are hopeful that they can break a 23-year streak without winning the governorship.
If Stefanik wins the primary and the general election, she would not have to leave her House seat until December 2025. Her recent votes have been crucial in advancing Republican legislation, making her a significant figure in current congressional discussions.
With the 2026 election approaching, the dynamics in New York politics are heating up. Stefanik’s potential candidacy could reshape the race and influence the future of the state’s governance.