ALBANY, N.Y. — Rep. Elise Stefanik abruptly announced Friday that she is suspending her campaign for New York governor and will not run for another term in Congress, citing a desire to focus on her young son’s well-being.
Stefanik, a prominent Republican, expressed gratitude for the broad support she received from party members, independents, and some Democrats during her gubernatorial campaign. Despite being the clear favorite to win the Republican primary against Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Stefanik said continuing the race would not be an effective use of time or resources, especially given the challenges of campaigning in New York.
The congresswoman, who had secured endorsements from the state Republican Party and county leaders, acknowledged that she would have likely secured the nomination at the party’s February convention. However, she emphasized her decision was driven by personal considerations, particularly her role as a mother and the importance of prioritizing her son’s safety and happiness.
The race had been complicated by the absence of an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who declined to back either Stefanik or Blakeman, stating he would support whoever won the party’s nomination.
Following Stefanik’s withdrawal, Blakeman expressed well wishes and called for unity among Republicans and New Yorkers to address key issues such as government accountability and affordability. State GOP Chair Ed Cox praised Stefanik’s leadership and quickly endorsed Blakeman, urging party leaders to rally behind him to challenge incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Hochul’s campaign responded to the news with confidence, asserting that Stefanik’s exit confirmed the difficulty Republicans face in unseating the governor. A campaign spokesperson also criticized both Trump and Blakeman.
Stefanik’s decision marks a significant shift in New York’s gubernatorial race and leaves the Republican field open as the party seeks to consolidate support behind a single candidate ahead of the general election.