Top GOP lawmaker, Hochul trade barbs amid speculation Trump ally is jumping in gubernatorial race
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik have already begun sparring in the 2026 gubernatorial race, with Hochul taking aim at potential GOP nominee Stefanik’s ties to former President Donald Trump. Hochul expressed concerns about the impact of Trump’s tariffs policies on the North Country region, particularly in relation to Canada. She labeled any potential GOP nominee as an “extreme MAGA Republican” and expressed readiness for the upcoming fight.
Stefanik, who has not officially announced her candidacy, fired back at Hochul, criticizing the governor’s handling of issues in the North Country and highlighting her unpopularity in the region. Stefanik accused Hochul of disenfranchising voters and harming farmers and correctional officers, claiming even Democratic candidates in the North Country refuse to publicly support her.
Despite Cook Political Report ranking the race as “Likely D,” Hochul is facing scrutiny with a 39% approval rating, according to a recent Marist poll. In 2022, she faced off against Lee Zeldin, then a congressman, in the gubernatorial race, with Zeldin achieving the best Republican performance in the state since Governor George Pataki’s win in 2002.
Stefanik’s recent decision to forego a potential appointment as United Nations Ambassador to maintain the Republican majority in the House has fueled speculation about her political ambitions. Allies of former President Trump have reportedly encouraged Stefanik to run for governor.
Other potential Republican contenders include Rep. Mike Lawler, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and Bethany Town Supervisor Carl Hyde Jr. On the Democratic side, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado and Representative Ritchie Torres are rumored to be considering primary challenges against Hochul.
As the gubernatorial race heats up, both parties are gearing up for a contentious battle for the governor’s seat in New York. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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