Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "The speed has been breathtaking the way things have changed. Elise Stefanik spent a year traveling the state, raising money, raising her profile and securing endorsements. It all went in a minute."
Albany insider Jack O'Donnell of O'Donnell and Associates reacted to the surprise announcement by Rep Elise Stefanik to drop out of the Republican race for New York governor in 2026.
O'Donnell thinks Blakeman entering the race forced her to take a second look at it.
Asked to read between the lines, O'Donnell said the biggest endorsement in Republican politics is from President Trump. Stefanik was counting on it. When Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman got in the race and the president did not endorse either, it was the final straw for Stefanik.
"What we heard from her is that an expensive primary campaign makes it
unlikely that either of them can compete with Governor Kathy Hochul. So that was the end," he added.
A day after Stefanik quit the race, President Trump gave his endorsement to Blakeman.
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After a move like this, O'Donnell said she likely has no immediate political future in New York State or in Republican politics.
Blakeman is not well known outside of Long Island, but O'Donnell said he has won re-election in Nassau County which has more Democrats than Republicans. He is also pro choice, which may appeal to swing voters.
"I think he can make this a competitive race, but it's an uphill battle."