Elise Stefanik Eyes New York Governor’s Race Amid Party Changes

ALBANY, N.Y. — Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is reportedly exploring a run for governor of New York in the 2026 election, sources close to her confirmed. This announcement follows her recent efforts to support President Donald Trump‘s policy initiatives while navigating opposition from Democrats.

Stefanik, who has served six terms in Congress, solidified her leadership within the House as chairwoman of the Republican Conference, after withdrawing from consideration for the UN Ambassador role to maintain GOP cohesion in the House. Allies of Trump and longtime friends are encouraging her candidacy, viewing her success in her conservative district—where she garnered 62% of the vote in the November elections—as positive indicators for potential statewide support.

The congresswoman’s comments came in light of a recent Marist poll showing Governor Kathy Hochul‘s approval ratings sinking among New York voters. “This latest bombshell polling proves what every New Yorker already knows: we must FIRE Kathy Hochul in 2026 to SAVE NEW YORK. Hochul is the Worst Governor in America and it’s not even close,” Stefanik stated, asserting her commitment to unseat the incumbent.

Trump complimented her during an appearance on social media, asserting, “Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is GREAT!!!” As a well-known ally of the former president, her position may greatly influence the Republican base as she contemplates her political future. With nearly $10 million in her campaign fund, she is well-positioned to compete financially should she officially enter the race.

Stefanik’s interest in the gubernatorial race adds to a growing list of prominent Republicans considering a bid against Hochul. Among them is Rep. Mike Lawler, who represents New York’s 17th Congressional District and has indicated he is also contemplating a run. “I’ll make a decision at some point — middle of the year. Obviously, you know if we’re going to do it, you got to get out there, and you got to campaign hard,” Lawler remarked in a recent interview.

In response to the potential GOP primary, Democrats are acutely aware of the competitive landscape. Kevin Donohoe, spokesperson for the Democratic Governors Association, criticized the prospective candidates, claiming they are “running to bring Donald Trump’s extreme agenda to Albany — and could not be more out of step with New York.”

Historically, it has been nearly 23 years since a Republican won a gubernatorial election in New York, with the last victory by George Pataki in 2002. Given Hochul’s fluctuating approval numbers, Republican strategists remain cautiously optimistic that this could change in the upcoming election cycle.

Stefanik’s decision to focus on the gubernatorial race comes amidst broader discussions about the future direction of the Republican Party in New York, coinciding with ongoing efforts to unify the party under Trump’s policies. Her return to House Republican leadership raises questions about how her gubernatorial aspirations may impact her congressional responsibilities, particularly as her vote was pivotal in passing Trump’s budget framework earlier this month.

“As we advance our America First Agenda, it is essential that we maintain EVERY Republican Seat in Congress. We must be unified to accomplish our Mission, and Elise Stefanik has been a vital part of our efforts from the very beginning,” Trump remarked when the changes were announced.

With various Republican contenders potentially entering this race, the 2026 gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a significant battle that could have lasting implications for New York’s political landscape.