ALBANY – In a surprising move that could reshape the Republican primary landscape in New York’s North Country, President Trump announced a high-profile endorsement on Tuesday. He is backing Anthony Constantino, an unconventional entrepreneur, in a bid to replace Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY).
Trump’s endorsement of Constantino, an ally known for his upstate business ventures, positions him against state Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R-Montgomery) in the upcoming June primary. This endorsement marks a significant moment in the race, potentially altering its dynamics.
On TruthSocial, Trump expressed his support, stating, “It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot Anthony Constantino, who is running to represent the fantastic people of New York’s 21st Congressional District.” He further highlighted Constantino’s backing by prominent figures in the MAGA movement, including Rudy Giuliani and Roger Stone.
Trump also praised Constantino’s commitment, recalling a “somewhat ‘controversial’” 200-foot pro-Trump sign that Constantino erected in 2024 atop his Montgomery County sticker manufacturing business. This act of support sparked a legal battle, but the sign remains a symbol of Constantino’s allegiance.
This endorsement challenges the preferences of New York’s GOP establishment, which largely supports Smullen. Key figures such as state party Chairman Ed Cox and the majority of the Republican committees in the 21st district have rallied behind Smullen, setting the stage for a contentious primary battle.
The endorsement flies in the face of New York’s GOP establishment – including state party Chairman Ed Cox and 12 of the 15 Republican committees in the 21st district – who backed Smullen for the seat.
Speaking to reporters in the state capitol shortly after Trump dropped his announcement, Smullen accused Stone, the Trump world operative and a Constantino adviser, of duping the president into the rushed endorsement.
“A consultant got to the president, someone who is being paid by my opponent, and I think the president’s made a mistake,” Smullen said, arguing that Trump needs to hear “the facts.”
“My support is with the people who are actually in this district, not someone who has spent $4 million putting his name out there trying to buy a congressional seat,” the retired Marine colonel said, calling Constantino “mentally unfit.”
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Smullen has received the nomination of the Conservative Party, meaning he will appear on the general election ballot in November regardless of the outcome of June’s primary.
He said he would not rule out continuing to run on the third party line through November.
“I had a great talk with President Trump and am honored to receive his endorsement,” Constantino told The Post in a statement.
“He noted every primary candidate he endorses wins so I look forward to winning the general election and making everyone who supported me very proud once I am Congress.”
