WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – In a move poised to influence New York’s political landscape, President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Nassau County’s Republican executive, Bruce Blakeman, for the state’s upcoming gubernatorial race. This endorsement was announced on Saturday, following closely on the heels of Rep. Elise Stefanik’s decision to step back from her gubernatorial ambitions.

The timing of Trump’s backing is significant, as it may solidify Blakeman’s position in the Republican primary, potentially smoothing his path to challenge the current Democratic Governor, Kathy Hochul. “Bruce is MAGA all the way, and has been with me from the very beginning,” Trump declared, using his Truth Social platform to make the announcement.

The landscape shifted when Stefanik, a prominent figure in Trump’s circle, revealed on Friday her plans to suspend her gubernatorial campaign and forgo her congressional reelection bid. Her withdrawal potentially averts a fierce contest with Blakeman, as she expressed a desire to prevent “an unnecessary and protracted Republican primary.”

Stefanik’s decision is particularly noteworthy given her unwavering support for Trump, who had once considered her for the role of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. However, the nomination was retracted amid concerns about risking the GOP’s fragile majority in the House.

The race between Stefanik and Blake had been expected to be competitive. Stefanik in announcing her decision said she wanted to avoid an “unnecessary and protracted Republican primary.”

Stefanik has been a steadfast ally of Trump, who nominated her to serve as his ambassador to the United Nations only to withdraw it because of concerns about potentially further eroding the GOP’s narrow majority in the House.

Stefanik announced her decision just days after Blakeman formally announced his candidacy.

Trump on Monday, amid reports Blakeman would jump into the race, declined to take a side in the primary race when asked about Blakeman and Stefanik, instead telling reporters, “He’s great, and she’s great. They’re both great people.”

Blakeman, the executive of Nassau County, has gained attention for championing a policy that bans transgender athletes from using county sports facilities. He has also created a volunteer law enforcement unit that his critics have labeled as a militia and directed county detectives to work alongside federal authorities in Trump’s immigration crackdown.