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Stefanik withdraws from New York governor race and Congress
New York Republican Representative Elise Stefanik announced Friday she will abandon her bid for governor and will not seek re-election to Congress in 2026, citing family priorities.
Primary clash with Trump ally prompted decision
Stefanik's exit follows Bruce Blakeman's announcement earlier this month that he would challenge her in the Republican primary for governor. Blakeman, a two-term Nassau County executive and close Trump supporter, positioned himself as an alternative to Stefanik, who launched her campaign in early November.
In a statement posted on X, Stefanik acknowledged she could have prevailed in the primary but called a prolonged campaign an "unnecessary" drain on time and donor resources. She emphasized her desire to focus on her young son's well-being, calling parenthood "life's greatest gift and greatest responsibility."
Democratic campaign reacts, Trump remains neutral
A spokesperson for Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, Ryan Radulovacki, responded to Stefanik's withdrawal by stating she had "finally acknowledged" the inevitability of defeat. He extended a challenge to Blakeman or any other Republican nominee, saying, "Hochul's message to him or whichever lackey Trump picks to run against her is simple: Bring it on."
President Donald Trump, who had not endorsed either candidate, described both as "great people" in recent remarks to reporters. On Truth Social Friday, he praised Stefanik as "a tremendous talent" and pledged his support "all the way," regardless of her next steps.
Stefanik's political career and Trump alliance
Stefanik, 41, has represented New York's 21st congressional district-spanning north of Albany and the Adirondack Mountains-since 2014. A staunch Trump ally, she gained prominence as one of his most vocal defenders during his first impeachment in 2019.
Trump initially nominated her as United Nations ambassador for his second term but withdrew the nomination, citing concerns about maintaining the Republican majority in the House.
New York's Republican governor drought
The last Republican to hold New York's governorship was George Pataki, who left office in 2007. Stefanik's withdrawal leaves Blakeman as the sole major Republican contender in the 2026 race.
