Elise Stefanik fuels 2026 governor’s race buzz with new fundraising machine

House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., is making waves in New York politics with the launch of her new political fundraising machine, Save New York. This move comes as Stefanik considers a potential run for the governorship in 2026, a race that would see her challenging current Governor Kathy Hochul.

Stefanik, a key ally of former President Donald Trump, has been building a strong political base in New York. Save New York, her newly established state political action committee, is aimed at supporting Republican candidates in local elections this November, laying the groundwork for her potential gubernatorial bid.

“Kathy Hochul is the worst governor in America, and she is leading a failed Democrat Party. After years of failed single-party Democrat rule in New York, it has never been more clear that we need strong, commonsense Republican leadership in New York,” Stefanik stated.

Stefanik’s close relationship with Trump has been evident throughout her political career. Trump had appointed her as ambassador to the United Nations during his second term, and she was set to sail through the confirmation process before withdrawing due to concerns about the House GOP’s majority.

In the House, Stefanik has been a prominent figure, particularly on issues like antisemitism on college campuses. She played a key role in the Republican Party’s investigation of anti-Israel protests at Ivy League institutions.

Stefanik is not the only House Republican considering a gubernatorial run in New York. Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., who represents a district won by Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, has also expressed interest in the race. Trump recently endorsed Lawler for re-election in his House district.

As Stefanik continues to build her political presence in New York, her potential run for governor is generating excitement among Republicans in the state. With Save New York backing her and a strong base of supporters, Stefanik could emerge as a formidable candidate in the 2026 gubernatorial race.

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