Axios: Trump clears path for Stefanik to run for NY governor

🔗 Read the full Axios article

In a major political development, Axios reported that President Trump is taking steps to clear the Republican primary field for Rep. Elise Stefanik to launch a campaign for New York governor — citing recent polling showing Stefanik well-positioned against incumbent Democrat Kathy Hochul.

The article directly linked to GrayHouse’s national polling, which revealed:

• 44% of Republican voters back Stefanik for governor, far ahead of any potential rivals

• Stefanik trails Hochul by just 6 points (46% to 40%) in a general election matchup — a strikingly competitive margin in deep-blue New York

• 60% of voters statewide say it’s "time for someone new" as governor, including majorities of independents and even a third of Democrats

  
  

Axios reported that Trump, recognizing the opportunity highlighted by the polling, endorsed two of Stefanik’s potential primary rivals (Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman) for reelection to their current seats — a move widely seen as clearing the field for Stefanik’s run.