New York, N.Y. (WBEN) Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman formally announced his campaign for New York governor Tuesday, setting up what could be a contentious and costly primary against Rep. Elise Stefanik.
In a social media post announcing his candidacy, Blakeman said, "Our state is struggling under policies that have driven up taxes, utility bills, and crime. It’s time for a proven leader who will Put New York First. New Yorkers deserve leadership that works, not more empty promises. I’m ready to take on Kathy Hochul and get results for our families."
Blakeman will face Rep. Elise Stefanik in a June primary that state Republican leaders have said they do not want. They are both trying to unseat Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul next November.
Hochul's campaign was quick to respond to Blakeman entering the race, calling him a "MAGA fanboy."
"Bootlicker Bruce Blakeman has lost just about every race he’s touched, county legislator, comptroller, Congress, even U.S. Senate. There’s a reason: just like Donald Trump, he takes money out of New Yorkers’ pockets and squeezes working families at every turn," Hochul's campaign said in a statement.
Blakeman has earned praise from President Donald Trump, who also commended Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., when she announced her intention to run for governor.
"He's great. And she's great," said Trump. "They're both great people. We have a lot of great people in the Republican Party."