Outgoing Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY) appears to be keeping his political options open before he leaves Congress in January.
The New York congressman recently posted a farewell video in which he repeatedly noted his love for public service. He’s been floated as a candidate for Rep. Elise Stefanik’s (R-NY) seat and for another run at the New York governorship in 2026.
“While I may not hold public office, know this: public service is in my DNA,” he said. “This isn’t the end. It’s a new chapter. Whether in public office or in another capacity, I will continue to serve.”
“I will continue to fight for the values we share, to advocate for the communities we love, and to work tirelessly to make our country better, stronger, and more united,” he added.
The caption to a video posted on Molinaro’s personal account says, “Thank you #NY19 and stay tuned … “
Thank you #NY19 and stay tuned… pic.twitter.com/bNhKDb6yGi
— Marc Molinaro #NY19
(@marcmolinaro) December 27, 2024
When Molinaro leaves public office in January, it could be his first extended absence from service since he took the job as a Tivoli, New York, village trustee in 1994 as an 18-year-old. He then served as the town’s mayor, as a member of the Dutchess County legislature, a member of the State Assembly, and as Dutchess County executive before he landed in Congress.
He lost to Rep.-elect Josh Riley (D-NY) narrowly in last November’s election, 51.1% to 48.9%, after beating him in the 2022 general election.
Molinaro was known as one of the most bipartisan members of Congress during his time in the House, ranking second among 436 members of Congress for bipartisanship, according to the Lugar Center and Georgetown University’s McCourt School.
Stefanik is President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for ambassador to the United Nations, and she is expected to be certified by the Senate. In that case, she would vacate her House seat when she takes office, and a special election would have to be held. While Molinaro has little direct connection to Stefanik’s 21st Congressional District, he became very familiar with the state’s county Republican chairs when he ran for governor in 2018.
He lost that race to Andrew Cuomo, 59.6% to 36.2%.
If Molinaro does run in Stefanik’s district, he’d likely win if chosen as the GOP nominee. He has statewide recognition, and her district is heavily red. It could be considered a safer move than running for governor against incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY), who isn’t overly popular but still benefits from the decisive blue streak of the state.
Still, this election cycle may be Molinaro’s best shot to be governor. Hochul ran a surprisingly close 2022 race against former GOP Rep. Lee Zeldin, winning 53.2% to 46.8%.
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Molinaro could also choose to run against Riley for a third time in 2026.
While Molinaro appears to have a decision to make, he’ll have to make it fast. Stefanik’s seat will come up for a special election in mere months, depending on how long her confirmation takes.