Summary
U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik announced her campaign to run for governor of New York against the current Governor Kathy Hochul. If Stefanik wins in 2026, she could potentially use her power as governor to remove New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, drawing on a rarely used legal authority. This power involves a formal legal process but has not been actively used since 1932.
Key Facts
- Elise Stefanik is running for governor of New York against Kathy Hochul in 2026.
- Stefanik is a Republican and currently a U.S. Representative.
- Zohran Mamdani was recently elected as New York City Mayor with 50.4% of the vote.
- The governor of New York has the constitutional authority to remove local officials, including mayors.
- This power includes serving charges, allowing the official to present a defense, and requires specific legal procedures.
- The last use of this removal power was in 1932 by then-Governor Franklin Roosevelt.
- Polls show varying support between Stefanik and Hochul in the upcoming governor's race.
- A special election is needed if a mayor is removed, depending on the city’s charter provisions.
