Republican congresswoman and close Donald Trump ally Elise Stefanik officially announced her candidacy for Governor of New York on Friday, setting the stage for a heated 2026 race. Her campaign launch featured sharp criticism of Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul and newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Stefanik’s announcement—long anticipated by political analysts—comes just days after Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the New York City mayoral election. His win, despite concerns raised by several Jewish organizations over his past anti-Israel activism, has fueled debate about rising antisemitism in the city.

In a video message announcing her campaign, Stefanik labeled Hochul “the worst governor in America,” accusing her of presiding over surging taxes, living costs, and crime. She also aimed Mamdani, calling him “an anti-Semitic communist who wants to abolish the police and raise taxes.”

“Under Kathy Hochul’s failed leadership, New York is the most unaffordable state in the nation—with the highest taxes, energy costs, rents, and grocery bills,” Stefanik said. “When New Yorkers needed leadership, she bowed to the far left and the Defund the Police movement, devastating families across our state.”

Known for her confrontational questioning of university leaders over antisemitic incidents on campus, Stefanik plans to center her campaign on public safety, affordability, and immigration.

“I’m running for governor to make New York affordable and safe for everyone again,” she declared, urging Democrats, Republicans, and Independents to come together to save our state.” Her campaign slogan: “Save Hochul? No—Save New York.”

Trump, who once considered appointing Stefanik as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, praised her as “a strong, smart America First fighter.” Stefanik declined the post, reportedly due to the slim Republican majority in the House of Representatives, where she has served since 2015, representing New York’s 21st Congressional District.