Stefanik to Launch New York Gubernatorial Bid, Blasts Hochul Over Mamdani Endorsement

Rep. 👤Elise Stefanik announced her bid for governor of New York, promising a campaign “focused on making New York affordable” and “safe again.”

According to the New York Post, Stefanik’s move could make her the first Republican leader of the Empire State in 20 years.

“New York State is single-party Democrat rule,” Stefanik said. “Under 👤Kathy Hochul’s failed leadership, New York is the most unaffordable state in the nation, with the highest taxes, highest utility and energy prices, highest rent, and it’s why people are leaving in mass exodus.”

Stefanik also tied Hochul to New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, criticizing the Democratic governor for endorsing him.

“She owns this disaster mayor who barely broke 50%. … He is a socialist, he is a defund the police, communist, anti-Semite, pro-Hamas, and 👤Kathy Hochul hasn’t condemned a single statement he has made,” Stefanik said.

“She owns this lock, stock and barrel. She also owns his position where he said he wants to raise taxes,” she added.

Stefanik continued her attacks: “👤Kathy Hochul has bent the knee to the defund-the-police communist in New York City. She owns failed bail reform, where violent criminals are being released on our streets, wreaking havoc across communities.”

She claimed Hochul’s endorsement of Mamdani has triggered backlash from Democrats. “What is most interesting is after 👤Kathy Hochul endorsed Zohran Mamdani, we have been flooded with traditional Democrats who have said enough is enough, we are not supporting 👤Kathy Hochul. We want you to run and then of course the overwhelming support of Republicans.”