Trump's key ally Stefanik announces campaign for New York Governor
President Trump's important ally in Congress, Representative Elise Stefanik, officially launched her campaign for governor of New York State on Friday (November 7). She will challenge the current Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in the 2026 gubernatorial race.
Stefanik, from New York State, is a senior member of the House Republican Conference. For months, she has been considering running for governor.
On Friday, Stefanik announced the news on the social media platform X and posted a campaign video. In her statement, she criticized Governor Hochul's failed leadership, which has made New York the state with the highest cost of living in the country, with the highest taxes, energy, water, rent, and grocery bills.
She said that when New Yorkers expect their governor to show leadership, Hochul has instead bowed to "defund the police" and tax-increasing communist forces, bringing disaster to New York families.
"I am running for governor to make New York a place where everyone can afford and be safe," she said. "Democrats, Republicans, and independents will come together to save our state."
Stefanik's decision to run for governor came just days after democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani won the New York City mayoral election. Mamdani is expected to become a target of Stefanik's criticism.
Previously, Stefanik stated that Mamdani is a "communist" and criticized the Democratic Party for pushing an "extreme" agenda in New York State. Stefanik also condemned Governor Hochul for endorsing Mamdani's campaign for mayor of New York City.
Since being elected to Congress in 2014, Stefanik has steadily risen in rank in the House of Representatives. She has also gained increasing public attention and political influence nationwide.
Stefanik is a staunch supporter of Trump. During Trump's first term, she vigorously defended him during the two impeachment trials in Congress. She publicly supported Trump before he officially announced his bid for the 2024 election.
The last time a Republican was elected as governor of New York was in 2002, when George Pataki won his third term.
Moderate Democrat Hochul faces a primary challenge from New York State Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. It is rare for a lieutenant governor to challenge the sitting governor. (Diao Gong Tian Lang)
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1848174544756887/
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