Trump Backs Blakeman for NY Governor After Stefanik Suspends Campaign

President Donald Trump endorsed Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for New York governor on Saturday, one day after Representative Elise Stefanik announced she would suspend her gubernatorial campaign and not seek reelection to Congress.

Trump announced his endorsement on Truth Social, calling Blakeman “MAGA all the way” and praising his work with immigration enforcement agencies. “Bruce Blakeman is a FANTASTIC guy, will win the big November Election and, without hesitation, has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Governor of the ONCE GREAT STATE OF NEW YORK,” Trump wrote.

Trump’s swift endorsement of Blakeman following Stefanik’s exit reshapes the 2026 New York gubernatorial race and signals unified Republican support behind a single candidate. The move avoids what could have been a divisive primary battle between two Trump allies, potentially strengthening Republican chances against Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul.

This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.