Blakeman to Pair with Giardino in New York’s 2026 GOP Ticket
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman is expected to announce Fulton County Sheriff Richard Giardino as his running mate in New York’s 2026 gubernatorial race against Governor Kathy Hochul, sources indicate.
Giardino, known for his tough-on-crime policies and strong support of gun rights, would join Blakeman — currently serving as Nassau County executive — on the Republican ticket as the nominee for lieutenant governor.
Sources report that Giardino is believed to be the only person in New York state history to have served as an elected district attorney, state Supreme Court judge, and sheriff.
Jerry Kassar, chairman of the State Conservative Party, expressed his admiration: “I’m very much impressed by him. I think he will be a wonderful addition to the ticket. He’s unique in that way — he has experience in all three areas.”
The pair is scheduled to make their first public appearance together on Monday ahead of the Republican nominating convention in Garden City, where Blakeman is expected to secure the party’s nomination.
This announcement sets up a contrast with the Democratic ticket led by Hochul and her running mate, former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, as Republicans again emphasize law enforcement credentials for their statewide campaign.
