August 25, 2025
By Staff
Elise Stefanik could mount a serious challenge to Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2026, thanks to narrowing poll numbers and rising independent support, according to Times Union. Republican insiders believe she’ll run on kitchen-table issues like crime and the cost of living — without distancing herself from Donald Trump.
Stefanik hasn’t officially entered the race but cleared the field after Rep. Mike Lawler said he’d seek reelection to Congress. Analysts say her strategy echoes former Gov. George Pataki’s 1994 upset, though she faces a tougher political map — and must overcome low name recognition statewide.
Her Trump alliance might help in a primary but could alienate moderates in a general election. Still, GOP strategists think a suburban backlash to NYC mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani’s progressive platform could give Stefanik momentum.
READ the full article in Finger Lakes 1 HERE
