Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman launched his campaign for New York governor Tuesday, spurring a competitive Republican primary in next year's election that party leaders had hoped to avoid.

In a social media post, Blakeman said he is "ready to take on [Gov.] Kathy Hochul and fight for our families."

"Our state is struggling with high taxes, rising utility bills, and rising crime," he tweeted , touting his record on public safety, immigration and taxes in Nassau County. "New Yorkers deserve a proven leader who will Put New York First."

Blakeman joins U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents the North Country, in the race . Both candidates are aligned with President Donald Trump. State GOP Party Chair Ed Cox, who has been backing Stefanik for governor, has said he'd like to a

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