Rep. Lee Zeldin Weighing A Run For Governor

NEW YORK — Rep. Lee Zeldin, a Republican from Shirley who represents the 1st Congressional District on Long Island, is considering a run for governor in 2022, he announced Tuesday.

Zeldin's decision comes amidst growing backlash against Gov. Andrew Cuomo: On Tuesday, a third woman accused Cuomo of sexual harassment. The calls for the governor's resignation have intensified, with some saying the sexual harassment accusations and the ongoing controversy over nursing home deaths threaten the governor's ability to govern.

Zeldin said he's contemplating a run based on the accusations against Cuomo.

"After receiving many messages of encouragement in recent days and weeks and after discussing it at length with my wife and daughters, I announced that I am actively exploring a run for governor of New York against Andrew Cuomo in 2022," Zeldin said. "As a proud New Yorker, I just can't sit back and watch Cuomo's attacks on our freedoms, our wallets, and our safety. After his nursing home cover-up, bullying, abuse, and harassment have come more to light in recent days and weeks, it's clearer now more than ever that he's been in the governor's office too long and it's time for Cuomo to go."

Zeldin, who recently won the race to retain his seat by a wide margin.

Zeldin, 40, was born and raised in Shirley. He ran for his fourth term, with campaign platforms focused on his military service, support for law enforcement and veterans, a tough stance on immigration, fighting gang violence (including MS-13), growing jobs and the economy, and getting to the other side of the pandemic.

Zeldin's tenure has been marked by speculation about his reported loyalty to former President Donald Trump. Donald Trump Jr. was a guest at a Zeldin fundraiser and Zeldin has greeted the president as he landed on the East End for fundraising events. Zeldin was included in an immigration forum Trump held on Long Island that focused on eradicating gang violence.

Zeldin, however, has said he is proud of his ability to reach consensus on both sides of the political aisle on issues including helicopter noise, Plum Island and getting personal protective equipment to Long Island during the coronavirus pandemic.

After decrying the violence that rocked the U.S. Capitol in January, Zeldin voted to object to the certification of the Electoral College votes for then-President-elect Joe Biden.

Cuomo's office did not immediately return a request for comment.