Overview
- The state GOP nominating committee unanimously designated Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for governor and named Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood as his running mate at the Long Island convention.
- In his acceptance speech, Blakeman focused on affordability, immigration and crime while attacking Gov. Kathy Hochul over energy mandates, congestion pricing and alliances with progressive leaders.
- A prerecorded message from President Trump praised Blakeman’s Nassau County record, pledged to work with him and urged voters to turn out in November.
- The rollout capped a turbulent start to the week after Fulton County Sheriff Robert Giardino publicly declined the lieutenant governor role, leading Blakeman to pivot to Hood.
- The Hochul campaign highlighted Trump’s backing as evidence of his influence over Blakeman as a Siena poll this month showed the governor leading 54% to 28%.