With the 2025 elections in the rearview mirror, the South Shore Press can confirm that upstate Congresswoman Elise Stefanik will run for New York governor, setting up a high‑stakes challenge to Kathy Hochul next year.
The Republican’s campaign positions her as a force for change on issues that hit hard on Long Island: high taxes, crime, illegal immigration, energy costs, and local zoning.
Stefanik’s entry into the race comes as Hochul and the Democrats have lurched far left, highlighted by the election of Socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York mayor. Though Hochul endorsed the Ugandan-born Muslim, he’s yet to return the favor, as the governor’s lieutenant, Antonio Delgado, has already announced a primary against her.
Stefanik’s platform directly addresses regional concerns. She pledges lower taxes and promises relief to homeowners and small businesses squeezed by state mandates and the high cost of living. On crime, she sharply contrasts with Hochul’s support of cashless bail and the defund-the-police movement.
Hailing from the Adirondack region, Stefanik calls for tighter border control and stricter internal enforcement, aligning with local frustrations over illegal immigration. On energy, she vows to reduce costs by scrapping the all-electric mandate and fossil fuel ban of the Democrat Green New Deal.
First elected in 2014, she quickly rose to prominence as one of the youngest women ever to serve in Congress. Known for her strong support of President Trump, Stefanik serves as Republican Conference chair, focusing on economic development, national security, and conservative priorities.
Locally, a Stefanik win would mean a pivotal re‑orientation of Albany’s policies. Her campaign argues that suburban communities deserve more autonomy, lower taxes, and safer streets. With Hochul under pressure among suburban voters who believe her administration prioritizes the city and statewide mandates over local control, Stefanik’s message is welcome news to Long Island taxpayers.