Stefanik Slams Hochul as 'Worst Governor' Amid 2026 Gubernatorial Run Rumors

Rep. Elise Stefanik, a prominent New York Republican and rumored 2026 gubernatorial candidate, unleashed a fiery rebuttal against Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, branding her the "worst governor in America." The clash erupted after Hochul accused Stefanik of supporting Medicaid cuts that could jeopardize five hospitals in her district, threatening constituents’ health and jobs.

In a sharp social media retort, Stefanik challenged Hochul’s leadership, pointing to billions in waste, fraud, and abuse in New York’s Medicaid program under Hochul’s watch. She accused the governor of prioritizing illegal immigrants over vulnerable New Yorkers, stating, "Kathy Hochul puts New Yorkers last." Stefanik emphasized her own efforts to strengthen Medicaid and her nationally recognized advocacy for rural hospitals, while mocking Hochul’s slipping rural support.

The feud intensified as Stefanik jabbed at Hochul’s reluctance to fully endorse New York City’s new Democratic mayoral nominee, Zohran Mamdani, a self-identified Democratic Socialist with controversial views on Israel. Stefanik claimed Hochul’s inaction signals tacit support for a "Communist nominee," accusing her of leading the state into chaos.

Fueling speculation about her political ambitions, Stefanik recently launched the Save New York political action committee and told supporters she’s "strongly considering" a run for governor, aiming to end the Republicans’ decades-long losing streak in the Empire State.