Stefanik Leads GOP, Faces UN Nomination Setback

Rep. Elise Stefanik has emerged as the leading Republican contender for the 2026 New York gubernatorial race, garnering 44% support among GOP primary voters and maintaining a strong net favorability. Recent polls, including those by GrayHouse, show Stefanik narrowing the gap with incumbent Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul to as little as six points, reflecting widespread voter dissatisfaction with Hochul. Stefanik's campaign has been bolstered by former President Trump's endorsement, but she recently faced a setback when her nomination for U.S. Ambassador to the UN was withdrawn—an action she attributes to Speaker Mike Johnson, citing concerns over the GOP's slim House majority. Speaker Johnson added to the political confusion by suggesting Stefanik might run for governor, a statement he later retracted and which Stefanik denied. Voter appetite for change remains high, with 61% saying it is time for a new governor. These factors position Stefanik as a formidable challenger in the upcoming gubernatorial election.