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4h ago

Blakeman Enters New York Governor’s Race, Challenging Stefanik for GOP Nod

The move forces the contest party leaders tried to avoid.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman speaks to the crowd during his State of the County address held at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola, New York, March 6, 2024. (Steve Pfost/Newsday RM via Getty Images)
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman attends the Nassau GOP" Rock the Vote" event held at Plattduetsche Park in Franklin Square, New York, Oct. 29, 2025.
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Overview

  • Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced his bid Tuesday with a "Put New York First" message centered on affordability and public safety.
  • His entry creates a head-to-head with Rep. Elise Stefanik, who launched last month with backing from state GOP chair Ed Cox and numerous county leaders.
  • President Donald Trump praised both candidates and has not endorsed either, telling reporters he will "think about it."
  • Stefanik’s campaign derided Blakeman as ego-driven with "no shot," while Gov. Kathy Hochul and Democrats tied him to Trump and blasted his record.
  • Blakeman cites a double-digit Nassau reelection and policies on immigration, policing and transgender sports, but he begins with far less cash than Stefanik’s roughly $12 million.