Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) has launched the “Save New York” political action committee (PAC), a move widely interpreted as laying the groundwork for a potential 2026 gubernatorial bid. The PAC aims to bolster Republican candidates across New York who advocate for tax reductions, school choice, and opposition to sanctuary policies. Stefanik’s initiative has intensified speculation about her challenging incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, especially as recent polls indicate a competitive race between the two.
Stefanik, a prominent figure in the Republican Party and a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, has been actively increasing her political presence statewide. Her efforts include supporting local Republican victories and raising significant campaign funds, citing her pivotal role in flipping several local governments and congressional seats, contributing to the GOP’s House majority in 2022. Her approach mirrors former Republican Governor George Pataki’s 1994 grassroots strategy.
The “Save New York” PAC is designed to support GOP candidates committed to reducing taxes, promoting school choice, opposing sanctuary policies, repealing bail reform, and resisting “Defund the Police” initiatives. Stefanik, who currently outpaces potential Republican rivals and is polling nearly even with Governor Hochul, has not officially entered the race but has expressed strong interest, claiming she is best positioned to unseat Hochul.
In a recent speech at the Staten Island GOP’s Lincoln Dinner, Stefanik criticized Hochul as an “accidental” governor and attacked the state’s economic conditions, blaming high taxes, excessive regulations, and Democratic one-party rule for driving families and businesses out of New York. She also condemned Hochul’s support of the $9 congestion pricing toll as “anti-worker” and accused her of prioritizing undocumented immigrants.
Stefanik’s political influence and fundraising prowess—bolstered by over $10 million in federal campaign funds—have drawn support from GOP leadership and major donors. President Trump’s decision to withdraw her U.N. ambassador nomination further solidified her role in the House to support critical Republican legislation.
The potential Republican primary field includes other notable figures such as U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, a moderate Republican, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Lawler’s moderate positions might be more palatable to New York voters than the conservative views of Stefanik, who had been considered a moderate when she was first elected to Congress in 2014.
On the Democratic side, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado has officially announced he will challenge Governor Hochul in the 2026 gubernatorial election. The announcement follows months of escalating tensions between the two Democrats, including policy disagreements and public criticisms. Delgado’s candidacy highlights growing intra-party division and adds pressure to Hochul, who already faces a tough reelection with potential Republican candidates like Stefanik preparing to run.
Recent polling data indicates a competitive race between Stefanik and Hochul. A co/efficient poll conducted in May 2025 shows Hochul at 43% and Stefanik at 42%, with 15% undecided. This narrow margin underscores the potential for a closely contested gubernatorial race in 2026.
As the 2026 New York gubernatorial election approaches, Stefanik’s actions, including the launch of the “Save New York” PAC, suggest a strategic positioning for a potential bid. Her growing political presence, fundraising capabilities, and alignment with key Republican figures position her as a formidable contender should she choose to enter the race.
