President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of Bruce Blakeman for New York governor on Saturday, a move that could smooth the Republican primary after Rep. Elise Stefanik suspended her campaign.
Trump’s Endorsement
Trump’s post on Truth Social read, “Bruce is MAGA all the way, and has been with me from the very beginning.” The endorsement comes a day after Stefanik announced she was suspending her bid for governor and would not seek reelection to Congress.
Stefanik’s Suspension
Stefanik said she was withdrawing to avoid an “unnecessary and protracted Republican primary.” The decision followed her formal announcement of stepping back from the race just days after Blakeman entered the contest. She has been a long-time ally of Trump, having been nominated by him to serve as his ambassador to the United Nations before the nomination was withdrawn.
Impact on the Primary
Blakeman, the executive of Nassau County, has drawn attention for a policy that bans transgender athletes from using county sports facilities. He also created a volunteer law-enforcement unit that critics label a militia and directed county detectives to work alongside federal authorities in Trump’s immigration crackdown. The Hochul campaign cautioned that Trump’s support could alienate voters, with communications director Sarafina Chitika stating, “Donald Trump endorsed Bruce Blakeman for one reason: he’ll put Trump first, New York last, and leave families to foot the bill.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman for New York governor after Stefanik suspends her campaign.
- Blakeman’s record includes a ban on transgender athletes and a volunteer law-enforcement unit.
- The Hochul campaign warns that Trump’s endorsement may turn off voters.
The endorsement signals a potential consolidation of the Republican field, leaving Blakeman with a clearer path to the primary and a likely face-off against incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in the fall.
