It's still 2025, but the 2026 governor's race in New York is now in full swing.

Bruce Blakeman, Nassau’s county executive, is the presumptive GOP nominee following Rep. Elise Stefanik's shocking exit last week.

Political expert Larry Levy says not having a GOP primary will only benefit Blakeman.

"Beyond money he doesn't have to spend months in a MAGA mud fest with Stefanik,” said Levy.

Since President Donald Trump's endorsement over the weekend, more republicans are now starting to back Blakeman, as he begins to focus on his battle with Hochul.

"I think I have a record of achievement here in Nassau County. I want to compare my record with Kathy Hochul's record. Hers is a record of failure, of misery," he said.

A spokesperson for Gov. Hochul's campaign told News 12:

"While Governor Hochul cut middle-class taxes, put money back in New Yorkers' pockets, and put boots on the ground to keep our streets and subways safe...Blakeman is 'MAGA all the way' – he cheered Trump's expensive tariffs that jack up costs for New Yorkers."

Blakeman says his focus is on the safety and financial well-being for all of New York.

"Lower taxes, try to keep the businesses we have, attract new businesses back to New York," said Blakeman.