ALBANY — Retired Marine Colonel and upstate Republican Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R-Fulton) is launching a bid for New York’s 21st Congressional District.
Smullen, who has represented his upstate Assembly district since 2019, is looking to succeed Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), who cannot stand for reelection as she runs for governor.
“As a Marine and a public servant, I’ve dedicated my life to defending our freedoms, fighting for our communities, and putting people before politics. It’s time to send a servant leader to Washington who will always put Upstate First,” Smullen wrote in a statement shared first with The Post.
Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R-Fulton) will run for the 21st Congressional District seat vacated by Rep. Elise Stefanik, who is running for governor. Albany Times Union via Getty Images
Smullen served for nearly a quarter century with the Marine Corps, including leading combat troops during three tours in Afghanistan as well as shaping defense strategy in the Pentagon.
“I served under President Trump’s leadership and share his vision for a strong America, secure borders, and an economy that works for working people,” Smullen said.
“In Congress, I’ll continue that mission — fighting alongside President Trump and building on the incredible success of Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, our next Governor, to deliver results for the families of Upstate New York.”
While the North Country district used to be competitive, going for President Obama in 2012, Stefanik had handily won it with over 55% of the vote in all her elections going back to 2014.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) cannot run for reelection as she campaigns for governor. Hans Pennink for the NY Post
It’s unclear whether a GOP primary will develop like the messy outpouring of candidates who first threw their hats in the ring earlier this year when Stefanik was tapped, and later un-tapped, by Trump for UN ambassador.
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Former US Senate candidate Joe Pinion said Wednesday that he’s interested in running for the seat. Trump mega-fan Anthony Constantino may also throw his hat in the ring.
Two Democrats have also declared long-shot bids at what Cook Political Report deems a solid Republican seat — Blake Gendebien and Dylan Hewitt.