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Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is considering a run for New York governor in 2026, believing she can defeat Governor Kathy Hochul. In an interview with the New York Post, Stefanik expressed confidence in her ability to become the first Republican governor of New York since George Pataki. She highlighted her focus on issues like crime, education, immigration, and energy as key priorities.
Stefanik, who has been in Congress since 2015, has not officially announced her candidacy but is actively exploring the possibility. She plans to gather support through events across the state, including the Capital District, Mohawk Valley, Erie and Suffolk counties, and New York City. Stefanik already has over $10 million in federal campaign funds, which could be redirected for a gubernatorial run.
According to a poll by Republican pollster Landon Wall, Stefanik is a front-runner in the Republican primary and is close to Hochul in a potential general election matchup. The poll shows Hochul leading Stefanik by only six percentage points, 46% to 40%.
Stefanik criticized Hochul's policies, particularly on taxation and crime, and accused her of failing to protect Jewish citizens from antisemitism. She also promised to work closely with the Trump administration to address issues like sanctuary policies and energy production.
Stefanik's potential candidacy has generated significant interest, with many urging her to run. State Assemblyman Chris Tague, who attended a recent event with Stefanik, stated, "She’s taken on the establishment, she’s taken on the media, she’s taken on the far, extreme left and she’s even taken on some of the biggest liberal universities — and she’s won."