Former U.S. President Donald Trump has thrown his considerable political weight behind Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in the race for New York governor, a move that dramatically reshapes the Republican primary field. The endorsement came just one day after Trump's longtime congressional ally, Representative Elise Stefanik, announced she was suspending her own gubernatorial campaign.
Endorsement Reshapes Republican Primary
The announcement was made on Saturday, December 20, 2025, via a post on Trump's Truth Social platform. Trump declared Blakeman "MAGA all the way" and noted he had been a supporter "from the very beginning." This endorsement, while anticipated by some political observers, is seen as a critical boost for Blakeman's bid, potentially clearing his path to the GOP nomination by discouraging other serious contenders.
The development follows the sudden exit of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik from the race. Stefanik announced on Friday that she was suspending her campaign for governor and would not seek re-election to Congress. She cited a desire to avoid an "unnecessary and protracted Republican primary" that could divide the party. Stefanik has been one of Trump's most steadfast defenders in the House of Representatives.
Blakeman's Record and Hochul's Response
Bruce Blakeman, who leads the suburban Nassau County on Long Island, has built a profile on several controversial policies. He has championed a ban on transgender athletes using county sports facilities and created a volunteer law enforcement unit that critics have labeled a militia. Furthermore, he has directed county detectives to assist federal authorities in immigration enforcement actions aligned with Trump's policies.
The campaign of incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul was quick to frame Trump's endorsement as a negative for New York voters. Hochul campaign communications director Sarafina Chitika stated, "Donald Trump endorsed Bruce Blakeman for one reason: he'll put Trump first, New York last, and leave families to foot the bill."
Political Calculations and Next Steps
The race between Stefanik and Blakeman had been expected to be highly competitive. Stefanik's decision came merely days after Blakeman formally entered the race. Notably, just days earlier on Monday, Trump had declined to take sides when asked about the potential primary, telling reporters, "He's great, and she's great. They're both great people."
Trump's full-throated endorsement now positions Blakeman as the presumptive frontrunner for the Republican nomination. The winner of the GOP primary is expected to face a challenging battle against Governor Kathy Hochul in the general election. This political maneuvering in New York is being closely watched as an indicator of Trump's ongoing influence within the Republican Party ahead of future national elections.
