U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik confirmed she intends to run for New York governor, though she hasn’t set a date to officially launch her campaign, according to CNY Central. Speaking at a Buffalo fundraiser, Stefanik harshly criticized Gov. Kathy Hochul, calling her worse than former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Stefanik said it’s “not if, but when” she’ll enter the race. Insiders suggest an early announcement could block fellow Republican Rep. Mike Lawler from gaining traction in the primary.
Stefanik currently represents parts of the North Country, Adirondacks, and Mohawk Valley. Hochul, who won Erie County in 2022, is expected to seek re-election.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].