As political winds shift across New York State, one name is electrifying conversations from the Adirondacks to Atlantic Avenue: Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. The six-term Republican representative from the North Country is rapidly emerging as a top-tier contender in the 2026 gubernatorial race—and a new wave of support is coming from an unexpected but increasingly powerful coalition: South Asian Americans across New York City and Long Island.
At a recent community event hosted by Pakistani American Republican Club, on Long Island, Stefanik’s potential candidacy dominated discussions, with attendees citing her strong national profile, border security, defense, unapologetic leadership style, and ability to connect with working- and middle-class voters as qualities urgently needed in Albany.
According to recent polling conducted by Horus Strategies, a leading public affairs firm, more than 70% of South Asian voters surveyed in key downstate regions said they would support Elise Stefanik’s candidacy for governor. An even greater percentage expressed deep dissatisfaction with Governor Kathy Hochul’s performance, particularly on public safety, economic affordability, and educational reform.
This growing bloc could prove pivotal. New York’s South Asian population—comprising Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, and Nepali Americans—is not only one of the fastest-growing demographics, but also one of the most politically active, particularly in Nassau, Queens, and Brooklyn.
Stefanik’s appeal goes far beyond one community. As Chair of the House Republican Conference, she has established herself as a fearless advocate for common-sense governance, economic revitalization, and strong public safety measures. “It is clear we need a new generation leader to step up and bring common sense and deliver results,” she recently said, calling out high taxes, skyrocketing insurance rates, and what she calls “a mass exodus of families and businesses” under Governor Hochul’s leadership.
Polling confirms her momentum. A recent co/efficient poll found Stefanik in a statistical tie with Hochul—42% to 43%—with nearly two-thirds of New Yorkers preferring a new leader. Another survey showed Stefanik leading the GOP primary field by double digits.
Photo courtesy of Pakistani American Republican Club – Dinner hosted in honor of visiting Congressman Jack Bergman (MI) & Congressman Keith Self (TX)
Her experience is unmatched in the race. First elected at 30, Stefanik was the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the time. She has since served on the House Armed Services Committee, the Intelligence Committee, and has consistently secured federal funding for broadband, infrastructure, military families, and economic development across Upstate New York. Her decisive questioning during the 2023 congressional antisemitism hearings catapulted her into the national spotlight, earning bipartisan support.
Meanwhile, Governor Hochul faces lagging approval ratings and rising criticism even from within her own party. Despite attempts to address inflation and crime, a lot of voters see her as disconnected from everyday realities.
For voters in Long Island and New York City suburbs—where affordability, safety, and school quality dominate dinner-table conversations—Stefanik’s platform is hitting the mark. Her pro-small business, pro-family, and anti-crime positions are aligning with the anxieties of parents, professionals, and homeowners across ethnic and geographic lines.
While Stefanik has not formally declared her candidacy, all signs point to an impending announcement. And when she does, momentum from grassroots coalitions like the South Asian community could propel her into the Governor’s Mansion.
“New Yorkers deserve a governor who backs our police and locks up violent offenders—not one who rolls out the red carpet for them,” Stefanik declared in a recent appearance, signaling the tone and tenacity of the campaign to come.
In 2026, the path to Albany may very well begin not just in North Country towns or Republican circles—but in the packed backyards, living rooms and small businesses of New York City and Long Island.
