President Donald Trump renewed his support for Bruce Blakeman during a Saturday tele-rally, promising federal help if the Republican wins New York's governor's race. State Democrats responded Sunday by renewing their criticism of Blakeman's campaign and his alliance with the president.
Trump praised the Nassau County executive's management and urged voters to support him against Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, according to a transcript of the Oct. 31 tele-rally published by Roll Call's Factba.se.
Trump promises help if Blakeman wins
Trump called Blakeman a longtime friend and said “he's a great manager.” He predicted Blakeman would be among his first callers after a victory and would receive substantial federal assistance.
“I'll be waiting for his call,” Trump said. He also urged supporters to vote for other New York Republican candidates during the telephone event.
Democrats challenge the campaign's presentation
In a statement Sunday, the New York State Democratic Party accused Blakeman's campaign of using prerecorded applause and cheers, pointing to clips circulated on social media. That was the party's allegation, rather than an independently established finding about how the audio was produced.
Party spokesperson Addison Dick argued that voters should reject Blakeman's campaign and its alignment with Trump. The statement highlighted the president's renewed endorsement as evidence of the candidates' close relationship.
Blakeman has defended his campaign as focused on issues and trust. In an Oct. 19 City & State interview, he criticized Hochul's positions and said he was seeking support beyond Trump's base, including from independent voters and Democrats.
The governor's election is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
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