U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik has picked up numerous endorsements from Republican county executives around the state after she launched a campaign on Friday for New York governor in 2026.
Stefanik’s campaign said Monday that nine GOP county leaders have backed her campaign, including:
Chautauqua County Executive Paul Wendel
Chemung County Executive Christopher Moss
Dutchess County Executive Susan Serino
Montgomery County Executive Peter Vroman
Oneida County Executive Tony Picente
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon II
Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne
Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin
“She’s ready to take her message of affordability, lower taxes, public safety, and common sense to the hardworking people of our state, from Buffalo to Bayside. With people like Congresswoman Stefanik stepping up to serve and save our state, the future is looking brighter for New York. Onward to victory!” Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said in a statement.
The North Country congresswoman has already racked up endorsements from nearly all county Republican chairs, putting her well on the way to become the party’s preferred nominee.
At this point, no other substantial GOP candidate has declared their candidacy, though others still have time to do so. In 2022, former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin was the party favorite early on and ultimately won the Republican nomination, but still had to win a primary contest against three other opponents.
The state GOP will hold a convention early next year to formally nominate their candidate.
Stefanik has represented New York’s 21st Congressional District since 2015.