Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman formally announced his New York gubernatorial bid Tuesday, setting up what could be a costly and contentious Republican primary against Rep. Elise Stefanik.
“Our state is struggling under policies that have driven up taxes, utility bills, and crime. It’s time for a proven leader who will Put New York First,” Blakeman said in a Facebook post announcing his candidacy. “New Yorkers deserve leadership that works — not more empty promises. I’m ready to take on Kathy Hochul and get results for our families.”
Blakeman, 70, also released a campaign video to accompany his announcement, touting Nassau County as the “safest in America” — in part due to cooperation with the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
Trump has not said whether he will make an endorsement in the primary. He nominated Stefanik to be ambassador to the United Nations last year before withdrawing her name to help secure the slim Republican House majority.
“She’s great. He’s also great,” the president said Monday of the two contenders, adding that “I’ll think about” whether to make an endorsement.
