Rep. Mike Lawler tells The Post he won’t run for NY governor

ALBANY, NY – Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) plans to forgo a run for governor and will instead seek reelection for his Hudson Valley House seat, he confirmed to The Post early Wednesday.

Despite months of teasing a potential bid to unseat unpopular Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, Lawler confirmed he’ll instead focus on holding onto his battleground congressional seat.

Lawler’s bowing out clears the way for Rep. Elise Stefanik, who has also been jostling for the GOP nod to run for Governor.

Rep. Mike Lawler will instead focus on reelection. CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Stefanik said Wednesday that she’d make a formal decision after November.

“I am grateful for the outpouring of support across our great state from Republicans, Independents, and Democrats who know it is our last best chance to Save New York,” Stefanik wrote.