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Congresswoman Elise Stefanik announced that she will reveal her decision on running for governor of New York after Election Day in November. Stefanik's announcement comes as Hudson Valley Congressman Mike Lawler has decided not to enter the gubernatorial race and will instead seek re-election to his congressional seat. Lawler's decision clears a path for Stefanik, who is considered a potential candidate for the governor's race in 2026.
According to The Hill, Lawler's decision helps the Republican Party avoid a potentially contentious primary battle, allowing them to focus on defeating incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul. Stefanik, a close ally of President Donald Trump, is seen as a strong contender for the GOP nomination. Her significant fundraising efforts, which have amassed $11 million in cash on hand, bolster her potential campaign.
Stefanik's focus remains on supporting Republican candidates in local and county elections this fall. WKTV reports that she has expressed her commitment to building a strong team for the upcoming elections. While Stefanik has yet to officially announce her candidacy, sources suggest that her decision to run is likely.
Governor Hochul, who has led the state since 2021, is preparing for a re-election campaign. Despite Stefanik's potential candidacy, recent polls show Hochul maintaining a lead in a hypothetical matchup. Yahoo News highlights that the political landscape in New York remains challenging for Republicans, given the state's Democratic majority.