GOP’s Stefanik Abruptly Ends NY Governor Bid, Will Not Seek Re-Election

New York’s Conservative Party Chairman Jerry Kassar also praised Stefanik and signaled his intention to rally conservatives behind Blakeman. “We are disappointed that Congresswoman Elise Stefanik won’t be running for governor this year, but we respect her decision and wish her the best,” Kassar said.

President Donald Trump, who had remained neutral in the budding primary contest, responded warmly to Stefanik’s decision. “Elise is a tremendous talent, regardless of what she does,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “She will have GREAT success, and I am with her all the way!”