Hochul Says Stefanik Would Have Been Tougher 2026 Rival Than Blakeman
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 7
Hochul Says Stefanik Would Have Been Tougher 2026 Rival Than Blakeman
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 7
Summary
Kathy Hochul said Elise Stefanik likely would have been a stronger Republican challenger than Bruce Blakeman, citing Stefanik’s national profile and superior fundraising ability.
Newsday’s editorial board prompted the comparison, and Hochul added that her polling still showed her defeating Stefanik in a hypothetical matchup.
Bruce Blakeman rejected the remark as a distraction from Hochul’s record, attacking her over high taxes, electric bills and health care costs.
Stefanik, once viewed as the GOP front-runner, declined to run last December; Donald Trump later endorsed Blakeman, helping lock up the nomination.
The exchange lands as Hochul seeks a second full 4-year term with a fundraising edge, while Republicans hope public matching funds and outside spending narrow the gap.