Stefanik Is Prepping Run
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) is preparing to launch a campaign for governor of New York, a move that could reshape the political landscape in a state long considered a Democratic stronghold. According to two sources familiar with Stefanik’s plans, the announcement is not a question of “if,” but “when,” signaling a calculated entry into what could become one of the most closely watched gubernatorial races in the country.
Stefanik, currently serving as Chair of the House Republican Conference, has seen her political stock rise significantly in recent years. Once the youngest woman elected to Congress, she cemented her national profile during President Donald Trump’s first impeachment, emerging as a staunch defender of the administration.
Her alignment with Trump has continued to define her political brand, and recent polling suggests it remains an asset in the Republican primary landscape. A GrayHouse survey places Stefanik well ahead of other potential contenders, including Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
RUN @EliseStefanik RUN!! https://t.co/EJu4v6jz2n
— Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) June 26, 2025
Republicans see a potential opening in New York, bolstered by recent electoral trends. Trump narrowed the Democratic margin in the state by over 11 points in 2024 compared to his 2020 showing. In 2022, Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul won reelection by just 6 points against Republican challenger Lee Zeldin—an unusually close margin in statewide politics for a Democrat in New York.
GOP momentum has also been evident in suburban regions like Long Island and the Hudson Valley, where Republican messaging on crime, economic distress, and migration has found traction. These themes could be central to Stefanik’s campaign, particularly as Governor Hochul continues to face scrutiny over the state’s affordability crisis and law enforcement policies.
The Worst Governor in America Kathy Hochul desperately tries to distance herself from the Defund the Police, raging antisemite Communist except Kathy refuses to denounce any of his insane Marxist policies. She OWNS this catastrophic candidate who will destroy NYC.
Kathy Hochul… https://t.co/ifBXhTFEGx
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) June 26, 2025
Adding to the Republican narrative is the recent Democratic primary victory of Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, a self-described socialist, over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in New York City’s mayoral race. Mamdani’s policy agenda—ranging from rent freezes to defunding the police—has unsettled moderates and independents.
For Stefanik, Mamdani’s platform offers a potent example of Democratic overreach and a potential rallying point for center-right voters concerned about New York’s political direction.