politics
New York Governor Says Stefanik Would Have Been Tougher Opponent
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Rep. Elise Stefanik would have been a stronger general election opponent than Republican nominee Bruce Blakeman. Blakeman responded by comparing Hochul to a Disney villain and criticizing her record on taxes and costs.
Jul 7, 5:42 PM·1m read1 source
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New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Rep. Elise Stefanik would have been a tougher Republican opponent than Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in the fall election. Hochul made the comments during an interview with Newsday's editorial board. She noted Stefanik's national profile and ability to raise funds, adding that the race would have been different.
The governor also said her campaign's polling showed she would have defeated Stefanik.
Blakeman compared Hochul to the Disney character Cruella de Vil in a statement to Fox News Digital. He said Hochul's policies on taxes, electric bills, and health care costs made her less likable than the fictional villain. Blakeman accused Hochul of trying to distract from her record.
Stefanik had been viewed as the early front-runner for the Republican nomination before dropping out of the race last December. Hochul is seeking a second full term after first taking office in 2021. The next campaign finance filings are due later this month.
Hochul maintains a significant fundraising advantage over Blakeman.
