U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik officially entered the 2026 New York governor’s race on Friday, presenting herself as a Republican alternative to Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul. In her campaign launch, Stefanik depicted the state as struggling with economic challenges and rising crime, declaring in a video that the “Empire State has fallen.”
The congresswoman targeted Hochul’s record, arguing that the governor’s policies have made New York “the most unaffordable state in the nation” and burdened families with high taxes, utility costs, and living expenses. Stefanik also criticized Hochul for backing New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, asserting to Fox News that the governor “bent the knee” when strong leadership was needed, and calling her “a toxic governor” whose policies have negatively affected small businesses and the state’s economy.
Stefanik emphasized her own political experience, highlighting her electoral successes and ability to appeal across party lines. “I’ve won every primary and general election, overperforming by earning support from Republicans, independents, and even Democrats,” she remarked. First elected to Congress in 2014 at age 30, she represents a conservative upstate district and has cultivated national recognition as a Trump ally.
Hochul’s campaign responded by labeling Stefanik “Donald Trump’s number one cheerleader in Congress.” Spokesperson Sarafina Chitika contended that Stefanik prioritizes Trump over New Yorkers, whereas Hochul focuses on lowering costs and supporting the middle class.
With the state under nearly two decades of Democratic leadership, Stefanik’s entry into the race marks a high-profile Republican bid for the governor’s office.
