Elise Stefanik Launches Bold Bid to Unseat New York Governor Kathy Hochul

By Newsmax Wires | Friday, 07 November 2025 07:53 AM EST

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., has formally declared her candidacy for governor of New York, vowing to transform the state into a “safe and affordable” haven while condemning Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul’s leadership as a failure. In an early Friday post on X, Stefanik labeled Hochul “the Worst Governor in America,” accusing her of driving up costs and destabilizing New York through policies she claims have left families struggling with record-high taxes, energy bills, rent, and groceries.

Stefanik criticized Hochul’s approach to governance, citing what she called a “failed leadership” that has exacerbated economic hardship and public safety crises. She specifically targeted Hochul’s alignment with progressive agendas, including the “Defund the Police” movement and “Tax Hiking Communist” policies, which she claims have created a “catastrophe for New York families.” Stefanik emphasized her campaign’s goal to unite Democrats, Republicans, and independents under the rallying cry: “FIRE HOCHUL. SAVE NEW YORK.”

The announcement marks the culmination of months of speculation about Stefanik’s political future and positions her as the leading Republican challenger to Hochul in the 2026 race. Her campaign website, eliseforgovernor.com, launched alongside the X post, urging donations and support.

Stefanik, 41, represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, a rural region spanning the state’s North Country. Elected to Congress in 2014 at age 30, she became the youngest woman ever to serve in the House of Representatives. A staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, she chaired the House Republican Conference during the 117th and 118th Congresses (2021-2025), becoming the highest-ranking Republican woman in Congress at the time.

Since Hochul took office in 2021, Stefanik has consistently criticized her economic and public safety policies, alleging they have driven residents and businesses away from New York. She has also condemned Hochul’s handling of the migrant crisis and criminal justice reforms, arguing that her leadership has left the state vulnerable. In a September radio interview, Stefanik declared, “Kathy Hochul has failed New Yorkers — from skyrocketing costs to dangerous streets. It’s time for new leadership that puts hardworking families first.”

Hochul, who succeeded former Gov. Andrew Cuomo after his 2021 resignation and won a full term in 2022, faces declining approval ratings amid ongoing affordability and crime concerns. Her administration has defended its record by highlighting economic development initiatives and efforts to strengthen gun control and reproductive rights.

Stefanik’s candidacy is expected to galvanize Republican voters across New York, particularly in upstate and suburban areas where taxes, inflation, and safety remain pressing issues. Political analysts note her national profile and fundraising capabilities could make her the most formidable GOP challenger in over a decade, with the race drawing significant attention as Republicans aim to break Democrats’ two-decade hold on the governor’s mansion in New York.