Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman officially announced his candidacy for New York governor on December 9, 2025, setting up a high-profile Republican primary showdown with Rep. Elise Stefanik. The announcement, delivered via a campaign video, highlighted Blakeman’s criticism of Governor Kathy Hochul’s leadership on crime and the state economy while pledging to “put New York first.”

Blakeman, who has served as Nassau County Executive since 2022, is making his first statewide run after a career spanning law and local politics. His campaign launch in Garden City featured interviews emphasizing a vision for stronger public safety, economic growth, and accountability in state government. Blakeman also noted that both he and Stefanik have received praise from former President Donald J. Trump, underscoring the race’s connection to the broader national GOP agenda.

The entry of Blakeman into the 2026 gubernatorial race signals an increasingly competitive and expensive Republican primary. His candidacy positions him as a seasoned local leader challenging a high-profile, nationally recognized Trump ally in Stefanik, promising an intense contest that could shape the GOP’s strategy heading into the general election. Supporters see his focus on crime, economic revitalization, and Trump-endorsed policies as a compelling alternative to the current administration, appealing to voters eager for change across New York State.