Rep. Elise Stefanik is now eyeing a potential run for governor of New York, according to a source familiar with her plans, after stepping aside as President Trump’s pick to serve as ambassador to the United Nations. While her nomination had advanced smoothly through the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Republican leadership raised concerns about jeopardizing the party’s narrow majority in the House if she vacated her seat ultimately leading to the withdrawal.
Stefanik, a longtime Trump ally who has represented New York’s 21st Congressional District since 2015, has grown increasingly prominent in national politics. She drew particular attention for her aggressive stance against elite universities’ handling of pro-Palestinian protests during the 2023–2024 academic year, earning praise from conservative circles and further cementing her alignment with the MAGA wing of the party.
Now, with New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s approval numbers slipping and her reelection campaign set for 2026, Stefanik appears to be signaling her readiness to enter the race. On Wednesday, she posted on X calling Hochul the “Worst Governor in America,” citing crime, high taxes, and the state’s sanctuary policies as key failures that have driven businesses and residents to leave.
“Her incompetence, corruption, and radical failed Far Left policies have destroyed our great state,” Stefanik wrote. “This polling shows that we can WIN & SAVE NEW YORK.”
The post was accompanied by a link to a new Marist Poll showing Hochul with a 39 percent approval rating and a 46 percent disapproval. Notably, 57 percent of New Yorkers surveyed said they do not want Hochul to run for reelection.
Trump, who is known to reward loyal allies with key endorsements and positions, is expected to back Stefanik if she runs. Many believe her candidacy would give him a strong ally in the governor’s mansion of one of the nation’s most influential states. With Trump’s growing influence over state-level Republican politics and Stefanik’s rising profile, the move could ensure that the former president ultimately gets the New York governor of his choice.