Long Island’s Bruce Blakeman Launches Urgent NY Governor Bid

UPDATE: Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman officially announced his campaign for New York governor on Tuesday, intensifying the political landscape with a primary showdown against fellow Republican and Trump ally U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik.

Blakeman, a prominent figure in Long Island politics, criticized Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul as a “failure” during his appearance on Fox News’ “Fox and Friends,” asserting that New Yorkers deserve leadership that prioritizes their needs. “I’m running for office to make people more prosperous, to make them safer, and to make New Yorkers happy again,” he declared emphatically.

This announcement sets the stage for a fiercely contested Republican primary as both candidates vie for the support of a party increasingly influenced by Trump’s political brand. Despite the Democrats’ substantial voter registration advantage in New York, the upcoming race is anticipated to be one of the most closely watched gubernatorial contests in the nation.

Blakeman, who has branded himself as “100% MAGA,” has championed conservative policies in Nassau County, including a controversial ban on transgender athletes in county sports facilities. He has also established a volunteer law enforcement unit, which critics have described as a militia, and collaborated with federal authorities to enforce stricter immigration policies.

His record includes a recent victory for a second term in November, and previous roles on the Hempstead Town Council and as commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. However, Blakeman’s attempts at higher office have historically fallen short, as highlighted by Hochul’s campaign statement citing his losses in various elections.

“He takes money out of New Yorkers’ pockets and squeezes working families at every turn,” Hochul’s campaign remarked, positioning her administration as a counter to Blakeman’s approach.

As the campaign unfolds, both Blakeman and Stefanik are positioning themselves as viable candidates capable of attracting moderate Democrats. This strategic framing comes despite their alignment with Trump’s often polarizing rhetoric, which remains unpopular in many parts of New York.

Former Governor George Pataki remains the last Republican to hold the office, leaving a notable gap for the party in the state for nearly two decades. The political dynamics in New York are shifting, and with the primary election looming, Blakeman’s every move will be crucial in determining his future and that of the Republican Party.

As this race develops, stay tuned for further updates on candidate positions and voter responses, as both Blakeman and Stefanik gear up for what promises to be an electrifying primary season.