Bruce Blakeman Launches GOP Bid For Governor, Setting Up Clash With Stefanik

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman formally announced on Tuesday that he is entering the Republican primary for New York governor.

“We want to put New York first, we want to make it more affordable, we want to make New York safer, and we want to make people in New York happy again,” Blakeman told Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade.

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s campaign immediately attacked his candidacy, branding him a “MAGA fanboy.”

Asked about Hochul’s remarks, Blakeman hit back, calling the governor a “failure.”

“I made Nassau County the safest county in America. We’re one of the most prosperous counties in America. I cut taxes, I haven’t raised taxes a penny in four years… She’s the one that’s been a failure,” he said, outlining his pitch for statewide leadership.

Blakeman has received praise from President Donald Trump, who also expressed support for Rep. Elise Stefanik when she entered the race. “He’s great and she’s great. They’re both great people,” Trump said when asked about the two Republicans running against each other.

Stefanik’s campaign responded sharply to Blakeman’s entry, saying, “Public polling has repeatedly shown Elise Stefanik leads Blakeman by 70% in a primary, including beating him soundly on Long Island. Elise is the strongest candidate against Kathy Hochul by a long shot.” Her team also argued that Stefanik’s electoral record “is in stark contrast to Bruce Blakeman,” whom they labeled anti-2A and accused of having “lost numerous statewide, federal, and local races in smashing fashion.”

Blakeman said he does not believe President Trump needs to pick sides between the two candidates at this stage.

“I don’t think the president has to make a decision now. Let’s see how it plays out,” he said on “Fox & Friends,” going on to praise Trump’s record. “He’s done more for America in the last 11 months than any president in my lifetime… So, I cherish his friendship and I appreciate his leadership.”