Key facts
- Republican Anthony Constantino, endorsed by Donald Trump, is projected to win the primary for New York's 21st Congressional District.
- Constantino defeated Assemblymember Robert Smullen, who had the endorsement of the New York State Republican and Conservative parties.
- Smullen had a 10-point polling lead over Constantino in April before Trump's endorsement.
- Constantino is the CEO of the Sticker Mule factory.
- The district is considered solid Republican.
Republican Anthony Constantino, who received an endorsement from Donald Trump, is projected to win the primary election for New York's 21st Congressional District. He will advance to the general election in November to potentially succeed Representative Elise Stefanik.
Constantino faced a challenge from New York Assemblymember Robert Smullen, who had secured endorsements from the New York State Republican and Conservative parties, as well as 12 of the 15 county Republican committees. Despite Smullen's broader party backing and a previous 10-point polling lead, Trump's endorsement of Constantino in April appears to have been a decisive factor.
The primary contest was reportedly contentious, with Smullen questioning Constantino's qualifications and noting his past registration as a Democrat until 2024. Constantino, CEO of the Sticker Mule factory, defended his campaign and his alignment with Trump's approach to politics, stating he self-funded his race to remain independent of donors and lobbyists.
Constantino's campaign website highlights his stances on issues such as aid to Israel and the January 6th Capitol attack. He also received endorsements from notable figures including former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn, Representative Jim Jordan, and UFC champion Henry Cejudo.