Rep. Elise Stefanik rumored for gubernatorial run, hits back against Hochul: ‘Worst governor in America’
Share and Follow

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., a critical Trump supporter allegedly considering a gubernatorial bid in 2026, responded strongly to New York Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, branding her as the “worst governor in America” following criticism over Medicaid reductions.

On social media last Friday, Hochul accused Stefanik of voting in favor of jeopardizing five hospitals in her district, placing her own constituents at risk and compromising their well-being and employment, all in allegiance to Donald Trump.

“I won’t stand for it. I’m fighting like hell to save New Yorkers’ health care,” said Hochul.

In response, Stefanik posted on X, “Hi @KathyHochul! Welcome to the fight.”

“You shielded yourself inadequately during our last encounter, when your perilous and ineffective sanctuary state policies were exposed. Shall we delve into Medicaid now?” she remarked.

Stefanik slammed Hochul for giving Medicaid benefits to illegal immigrants, “putting New Yorkers most vulnerable LAST.”

“NY’s Medicaid program is rampant with tens of billions of waste, fraud, and abuse under Kathy’s watch,” she wrote.

“Kathy Hochul, the Worst Governor in America oversees the worst run Medicaid program in the country harming NYers. Medicaid is an incredibly important program that I have worked to strengthen for New Yorkers.”

The New York congresswoman then added, “Oh and Kathy, your numbers in rural NY are plummeting” and “I have been nationally recognized as the TOP advocate to deliver results for rural hospitals due to my work for hospitals in my district.”

In another post, Stefanik said, “Oh Kathy. I’m glad I set your schedule these days – from setting your Tweet schedule by forcing you to tweet on the Communist Mayor who just won in your Democrat Party in NYC. To you now scrambling to go to Saranac Lake because of news articles. When I have an announcement to make, believe me you’ll know.”

This comes after Stefanik pressured Hochul to say whether she supported the new Democratic nominee for New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has made controversial statements criticizing Israel and promoting Palestine and who identifies as a Democratic Socialist.

Hochul has since said she plans to meet with Mamdani to discuss his ideas for the city but has not yet issued a full endorsement.

Stefanik has said that as the leader of the New York Democratic Party, Hochul “fully embraced the antisemitic, Communist nominee,” adding, “she owns this catastrophe.”

Earlier this month, Stefanik told a Republican crowd in Staten Island she was “strongly considering” entering the race for governor.

She unveiled a new state political action committee, Save New York, which appears aimed at further cementing her status as a heavyweight in Empire State GOP politics.

Fox News Digital’s Elizabeth Elkind contributed to this report.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
A snowplow operates outside a church in Lowville, N.Y., on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Cara Anna)

Brace for Impact: Thanksgiving Travel Set to be Disrupted by Snow, Rain, and Cold Weather

Thanksgiving travelers are already facing snow and cold temperatures, with more severe…
WWE sex symbol shocks fans after resurfacing at 65 - see her now

WWE Icon Returns: 65-Year-Old Former Diva Stuns Fans with Timeless Comeback

During the late 1990s, Debra Marshall emerged as one of the most…
The best true crime documentaries to watch now, chosen by experts

Expert-Recommended True Crime Documentaries: Top Picks for Your Viewing List

The fascination with true crime remains as strong as ever, captivating audiences…
Northwestern to pay $75M in federal civil-rights deal after antisemitism probes

Northwestern’s $75M Settlement: Unveiling the Antisemitism Probe and Its Impact on Civil Rights

The Trump administration unveiled a comprehensive civil rights agreement on Friday involving…
Virginia high school football coach goes missing during team's undefeated season

Family Reports Fugitive Football Coach Vanishes into Forest Armed with Firearm

A Virginia high school football coach, who became the subject of a…
Sheriff slams law enforcement agencies for releasing illegal immigrant who allegedly hit Ohio nurse

Ohio Controversy: Sheriff Condemns Release of Alleged Immigrant Assailant in Nurse Hit-and-Run Case

In a recent development from Ohio, a local sheriff has vocally criticized…
A Thanksgiving to remember: IHOP waitress gets $2,000 tip after man raises money on social media

Memorable Thanksgiving: IHOP Waitress Receives $2,000 Tip from Social Media Campaign

Ashley Cruz, a server at an IHOP in Des Moines, Iowa, was…
Melania Trump shares clip teasing her MOVIE and reveals a new business

Melania Trump Unveils Sneak Peek of Upcoming Film and Launches New Venture

In an unexpected twist, Melania Trump made waves across Hollywood and Washington…