Rep. Mike Lawler’s (R-N.Y.) decision to forgo a New York gubernatorial run has cleared a path for Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) to mount her own candidacy, teeing up what will be one of the most watched governor’s races next year.

Rep. Mike Lawler says he will run for reelection in New York's 17th Congressional District in the 2026 midterms, forgoing a bid for governor.

U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler says he won’t run for New York governor next year. The moderate Republican represents a suburban swing district.