BREAKING: Republican Bruce Blakeman has officially launched his campaign for Governor of New York, marking a significant moment in the 2026 electoral race. The two-term Nassau County executive revealed his candidacy through a compelling video early Tuesday morning, emphasizing his commitment to “put New York first.”
Blakeman’s announcement comes on the heels of his recent reelection victory in Nassau County last November, where he secured his position amidst heated debates on key issues such as immigration and tax policy. He is now set to challenge Congresswoman Elise Stefanik for the Republican nomination, intensifying the competition within the GOP.
In his campaign video, Blakeman stated, “A strong leader with a proven track record of delivering the change we need.” However, his entrance into the race has drawn sharp criticism. Stefanik’s campaign wasted no time, claiming, “Everyone knows Bruce has no shot and is putting his raging ego first.”
Incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, is seeking reelection and faces a primary challenge from Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado. Hochul’s campaign quickly responded to Blakeman’s announcement, labeling him a “bootlicker” and suggesting that he has consistently failed in his previous political endeavors. “He takes money out of New Yorkers’ pockets and squeezes working families at every turn,” said Hochul’s team.
Blakeman’s conservative stance has gained him national attention and energized his supporters. In a notable mention, former President Donald Trump referred to Blakeman as “great” during a recent conversation about the New York gubernatorial race. This endorsement could prove pivotal as Blakeman seeks to rally the Republican base around his campaign.
“I am going to work very hard to keep taxes down. I haven’t raised taxes one penny in four years,” Blakeman declared during his reelection campaign, highlighting his fiscal policy as a cornerstone of his governance. His positions on issues like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, bans on transgender athletes, and the allocation of opioid settlement funds were instrumental in his recent electoral success.
As the political landscape shifts, all eyes will be on the GOP primary as candidates gear up for a potentially volatile race. Blakeman’s entry could reshape the dynamics of the election, with both Hochul and Stefanik already framing their narratives against him.
WHAT’S NEXT: Voters can expect a fierce battle for the Republican nomination as the campaign heats up in the coming months. The primary election will be crucial in determining who will challenge Hochul in what is poised to be a highly contested election.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the race for New York governor unfolds.
