Summary
Elise Stefanik, a Republican U.S. Representative, has announced her candidacy for governor of New York. She criticized current Governor Kathy Hochul and New York's affordability in a social media video. The race for governor in 2026 is expected to be challenging for any Republican, but Stefanik brings recognition and connections from her time in Congress and association with President Trump.
Key Facts
- Elise Stefanik is running for governor of New York as a Republican.
- Stefanik criticized Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, calling her ineffective.
- She claimed New York is the most unaffordable state in the U.S.
- President Donald Trump had previously nominated Stefanik for U.N. ambassador.
- Trump withdrew her nomination due to concerns about maintaining Republican seats in the U.S. House.
- Mike Lawler, a Republican congressman, decided not to run for governor and will seek reelection in the House.
- Kathy Hochul's current term as governor is being challenged within her own party.
- Stefanik has been in Congress since 2014 and is closely aligned with Trump policies.
