Garden City, New York, January 7, 2026
The New York State Republican Committee has announced plans for a statewide nominating convention at the Garden City Hotel. This event, scheduled for February 9 to 11, will bring together key party members to conduct essential business and nominate candidates for significant state offices, including the upcoming gubernatorial race. Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is a notable candidate for the Republican nomination, gaining traction after Elise Stefanik’s recent withdrawal. The convention will also introduce a joint ticket for candidates running for governor and lieutenant governor, aiming to strengthen party strategies in upcoming elections.
Garden City, New York – The New York State Republican Committee has exciting plans for its 2026 statewide nominating convention, set to take place from February 9 to 11 at the Garden City Hotel in Nassau County. This gathering will be a significant event for the Republican Party, drawing together county chairs, state committee members, party activists, and local supporters to conduct essential party business and officially nominate candidates for key state offices.
The convention occurs in the lead-up to the gubernatorial election, with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman emerging as a prominent candidate for the Republican nomination. Blakeman’s bid has gained traction following U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik’s withdrawal from the race in December 2025. His candidacy has received notable support from influential figures within the party, including former President Donald Trump.
Beyond the gubernatorial race, the convention will focus on nominees for several statewide positions such as lieutenant governor, attorney general, and state comptroller. A noteworthy change this year is the introduction of a joint ticket for candidates running for governor and lieutenant governor, a shift that arises from a new law enacted in 2025. This change is anticipated to streamline the electoral process and foster stronger collaborations between candidates.
The upcoming 2026 elections are critical for the Republican Party as it seeks to regain ground in a state long dominated by Democratic leadership. The Garden City convention is pivotal in shaping the party’s strategies and candidate selections for an effective campaign.
The choice of Garden City as the convention site is strategically significant, particularly for Blakeman, who serves as Nassau County executive. This connection enhances local support and amplifies the party’s visibility within the community. As the convention approaches, focus will remain on how the Republican Party positions its candidates to unseat incumbent Democrats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the New York State Republican Committee’s 2026 nominating convention?
The convention aims to conduct official party business and nominate candidates for key state offices, including governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and state comptroller.
When and where will the 2026 nominating convention take place?
The convention is scheduled for February 9 to 11, 2026, at the Garden City Hotel in Nassau County, New York.
Who is the leading candidate for the Republican gubernatorial nomination?
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is currently the frontrunner for the Republican nomination for governor.
What significant change has been implemented regarding the gubernatorial and lieutenant governor primaries?
For the first time, candidates for governor and lieutenant governor will form a joint ticket ahead of the primaries, as mandated by a state law passed in 2025.
Why is the convention being held in Garden City, Nassau County?
The location holds particular significance for Bruce Blakeman, the perceived frontrunner for the Republican nomination for governor, as he is currently the Nassau County executive.
Key Features of the 2026 New York State Republican Nominating Convention
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | February 9 to 11, 2026 |
| Location | Garden City Hotel, Nassau County, New York |
| Key Participants | Republican county chairs, state committee members, party activists, and local supporters |
| Primary Focus | Nominating candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and state comptroller |
| Notable Candidate | Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, leading the gubernatorial nomination |
| Significant Change | Candidates for governor and lieutenant governor will form a joint ticket ahead of the primaries, as per a 2025 state law |
Now Happening on X
- @NassauExec (Jan 6, 2026): Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman campaigns in Western New York, pledging to deliver safe streets, lower taxes, and results statewide as he challenges Gov. Kathy Hochul. View on X
- @WGRZ (Jan 6, 2026): Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman visits Western New York as a GOP gubernatorial candidate to discuss his agenda for the state. View on X
- @WBEN (Jan 6, 2026): Bruce Blakeman joins WBEN to share his background and plans as he runs against Gov. Kathy Hochul in the upcoming gubernatorial election. View on X
- @NassauExec (Jan 6, 2026): Jerry Kassar, Chairman of the New York State Conservative Party, endorses Blakeman’s gubernatorial campaign, praising his record on taxes and public safety. View on X
- @VaughnEGolden (Jan 5, 2026): NY Conservative Party Chair Jerry Kassar endorses Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for governor, signaling no issues with his pro-choice stance for the party line. View on X
- @NassauExec (Jan 6, 2026): This campaign is about restoring order, protecting families, and putting New Yorkers first again. View on X
- @revjmcguire (Jan 6, 2026): As a pro-choice Republican, Bruce Blakeman may face challenges with the pro-life GOP base in his gubernatorial run, needing assurances to secure votes. View on X
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