President Donald Trump has thrown his full support behind Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in the 2026 New York gubernatorial race, delivering a swift and powerful endorsement on Truth Social less than 24 hours after Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) abruptly suspended her campaign.
In a fiery post, Trump hailed Blakeman as “MAGA all the way” and a longtime ally, praising his tough stance on immigration, public safety, and the economy. “Bruce Blakeman is a FANTASTIC guy… [he] has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Governor of the ONCE GREAT STATE OF NEW YORK (IT CAN BE GREAT AGAIN!),” Trump wrote.
The move comes amid high drama in the GOP primary. Stefanik, a rising star and staunch Trump loyalist, exited the race on Friday, citing family priorities and a desire to avoid a “protracted” primary fight. Sources close to the campaign say Trump’s earlier neutrality – despite Stefanik’s strong polling lead – played a key role in her decision.
Blakeman, a two-term Long Island Republican known for conservative policies on border security and law enforcement, quickly accepted the endorsement, calling himself “blessed and grateful.” He vowed to partner with Trump to make New York “safe and affordable” again.
Democrats wasted no time firing back. A spokesperson for incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) slammed the endorsement: “Donald Trump endorsed Bruce Blakeman for one reason: he’ll put Trump first, New York last.”
With Trump’s backing, Blakeman is now the clear GOP frontrunner in a state where Republicans haven’t won the governorship since 2002. Recent polls show Hochul leading potential challengers by double digits, setting up a tough general election battle.
This rapid pivot underscores Trump’s dominant influence over the Republican Party as the 2026 midterms loom. Stay tuned for updates.