Key facts
- President Donald Trump campaigned in Syracuse, New York, on Friday.
- Trump endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman.
- Trump urged voters to replace Governor Kathy Hochul.
- Trump criticized New York Attorney General Letitia James.
President Donald Trump visited Syracuse, New York, on Friday to rally support for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, in what is seen as an effort to boost GOP turnout in the state. Trump urged attendees to vote out Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul and criticized Attorney General Letitia James, referring to her as "Peekaboo" and calling the state "dirty, filthy places."
Trump's visit is also intended to help Republicans maintain control of House seats, with a Republican operative noting that New York's congressional races could determine the House majority in 2026, as they did in 2022. The strategy echoes former Rep. Lee Zeldin's 2022 gubernatorial campaign, which, despite his loss, is credited with driving Republican turnout.
However, Trump's presence carries a dual effect. While he can energize the Republican base, his deep unpopularity with many New York Democrats could also motivate opposition voters. Political science professor Grant Reeher noted that Trump's polarizing nature could cut both ways, potentially helping Republican candidates by increasing enthusiasm but also potentially galvanizing Democrats.
Republican candidates like Anthony Constantino, running for the seat of retiring Rep. Elise Stefanik in New York's 21st Congressional District, have embraced Trump. Constantino has loaned $16 million to his campaign, aiming to keep the traditionally Republican seat in GOP hands. However, factors like high gas prices and the trade war with Canada could make the race more competitive, according to Erin Covey of the Cook Political Report.