Elise Stefanik Exits New York Governor Race, Announces Departure From Congress
ALBANY, N.Y. — Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik has announced she is suspending her campaign for New York governor and will not seek reelection to Congress, bringing an abrupt end to what had been expected to be one of the most high-profile GOP primary battles in the state.
In a statement released Friday, Stefanik said she was confident she could win the Republican primary against Long Island executive Bruce Blakeman. However, she decided that continuing the race was not the best use of her time, citing family priorities as the driving factor behind her decision.
“After deep reflection, I know that as a mother I would feel profound regret if I didn’t focus more on my young son’s safety, growth, and happiness at this critical stage of his life,” Stefanik said.
A Crowded GOP Field and Trump’s Neutral Stance
Stefanik’s withdrawal avoids a potentially bruising Republican primary against Blakeman, with both candidates positioning themselves as allies of former President Donald Trump. Trump had recently declined to back either contender publicly, telling reporters that both were “great people.”
Following Stefanik’s announcement, Trump praised her on his Truth Social platform, calling her a “fantastic person and congresswoman” and adding that she would achieve “great success” in whatever path she chooses.
From Rising Star to Party Leader
Stefanik, who represents a conservative district in northern New York, has been a vocal critic of Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, who is seeking reelection while facing a primary challenge from Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado.
Elected to Congress in 2014 at just 30 years old, Stefanik became the youngest woman ever elected to the House. Initially viewed as a moderate Republican, her political profile shifted sharply to the right as Trump rose to dominance within the party. She later emerged as one of his strongest defenders, including during his first impeachment proceedings.
In 2021, Stefanik rose to House GOP leadership as chair of the House Republican Conference. She also voted against certifying the 2020 presidential election results following the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, a move that cemented her standing with Trump’s base.
UN Nomination and Tensions in House Leadership
Last year, Stefanik was nominated by Trump to serve as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, but the nomination was withdrawn due to concerns about Republicans’ slim House majority. Afterward, she began laying the groundwork for a gubernatorial run.
Her exit from electoral politics follows recent tensions with House Speaker Mike Johnson. Stefanik publicly accused Johnson of dishonesty over legislative negotiations and labeled him a “political novice” in media interviews. Although both later said they had resolved the dispute, Stefanik has not fully retracted her criticisms.
GOP Shifts Support to Blakeman
New York State Republican Chairman Ed Cox said the party respects Stefanik’s decision and thanked her for her service. Cox also announced his endorsement of Bruce Blakeman for governor, urging party leaders to unite behind him.
“Bruce is a proven fighter who knows how to win in challenging political environments,” Cox said.
What’s Next for Elise Stefanik?
With her congressional career ending and her gubernatorial campaign suspended, Stefanik’s next move remains uncertain. However, allies and critics alike agree her influence within Republican politics is far from over, especially given Trump’s continued praise and support.
For now, Stefanik says her priority is clear: stepping away from the political spotlight to focus on her family, closing a significant chapter in modern New York and national Republican politics.
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