Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has launched a campaign for New York governor, setting up a Republican primary battle with Representative Elise Stefanik in a race that now features two prominent allies of President Donald Trump. Blakeman announced his bid Tuesday, arguing that New York needs a change in leadership as the state continues to struggle with affordability, crime, and high taxes.
In a social media post, Blakeman declared that New Yorkers “deserve leadership that works” and pledged to focus on public safety, economic development, and lowering costs. During an appearance on Fox News, he described his campaign as an effort to “put New York first” and appealed to Democrats and independents, noting his track record of winning in Nassau County, where Democratic voters outnumber Republicans.
Blakeman, 70, pointed to GOP gains on Long Island as evidence of his ability to attract crossover support. His tenure has included high-profile local measures, such as restrictions on mask use to conceal identity and a county-level ban on transgender women competing in women’s sports at county facilities. He has also emphasized cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Stefanik, who entered the governor’s race last month, has already consolidated significant institutional support within the state Republican Party. Her campaign quickly responded to Blakeman’s decision, arguing he is undermining Republicans’ chances in November and positioning her as the stronger contender against Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul.
Trump has so far withheld an endorsement, remarking this week that “he’s great and she’s great,” leaving open the possibility of backing one of them later. Hochul, meanwhile, welcomed the Republican primary, commenting that it would make the race “more entertaining” and portraying both candidates as closely aligned with Trump’s agenda.
The winner of the GOP contest will likely face Hochul, who is seeking another term and is contending with her own primary challenge from Lt. Governor Antonio Delgado as the 2026 election cycle begins to intensify.
