Blakeman Taps Madison County Sheriff as Running Mate for NY Governor Race

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announces veteran law enforcement official Todd Hood as his lieutenant governor pick.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has selected Todd Hood, the longtime Madison County sheriff, as his running mate in the 2026 Republican race for New York governor. Blakeman cited Hood's experience in law enforcement and public safety management as key reasons for the pick, as both men aim to focus on issues like crime, taxes, and utility costs during the campaign.

Why it matters

The 2026 New York governor's race is expected to be a high-profile contest, with Republicans seeking to flip the office for the first time in two decades. Blakeman's choice of a veteran law enforcement official as his running mate signals a campaign focused on public safety and criminal justice issues, which could resonate with some voters in the wake of rising crime rates.

The details

Blakeman formally launched his gubernatorial campaign in December 2025, pledging to 'Put New York First' by addressing crime, taxes, and utility costs. He has repeatedly touted Nassau County's low crime rate as evidence of his leadership. Hood, a lifelong Madison County resident, has worked in law enforcement for over 30 years and currently serves as the county's sheriff.

  • Blakeman launched his gubernatorial campaign in December 2025.
  • Blakeman announced Todd Hood as his running mate on February 9, 2026.

The players

Bruce Blakeman

The Nassau County Executive and Republican candidate for New York governor in 2026.

Todd Hood

The longtime Madison County sheriff who is Blakeman's choice for lieutenant governor.

Kathy Hochul

The incumbent Democratic governor of New York who is running for re-election in 2026.

Adrienne Adams

The former New York City Council Speaker who is Hochul's running mate for lieutenant governor.

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What they’re saying

“My running mate, Sheriff Todd Hood, has spent his career protecting communities, managing complex public safety operations, and standing up for law-abiding New Yorkers.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive (dailyvoice.com)

“Our state is struggling with high taxes, rising utility bills, and rising crime. New Yorkers deserve a proven leader who will put New York first.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive (dailyvoice.com)

What’s next

The 2026 New York governor's race is expected to draw national attention as Republicans seek to flip the governor's office for the first time in two decades.

The takeaway

Blakeman's choice of a veteran law enforcement official as his running mate signals a campaign focused on public safety and criminal justice issues, which could resonate with some voters in the wake of rising crime rates across New York state.