New York deserves a champion for workers - not Elise Stefanik

ALBANY, NY (11/07/2025) (readMedia)-- The Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) is expressing serious concern about U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik's announcement that she will run for governor of New York. New York's success depends on strong public services-something Stefanik's record has failed to prioritize.

"Congresswoman Stefanik's anti-union record threatens the rights, wages and retirement security of CSEA members across New York," said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan. "Our state deserves leadership that strengthens - not undermines – working people."

Stefanik has repeatedly aligned herself with policies that are hostile toward organized labor, including opposition to federal labor protections and efforts to weaken public employee pensions. She said she was "proud" to support the 2025 federal reconciliation bill, which will cost New York $15.4 billion annually and eliminate roughly 215,000 jobs statewide.

"Congresswoman Stefanik has had years to engage with CSEA and fight for our members in Washington - she's done neither," Sullivan said. "For someone running for governor, her lack of engagement with workers who provide essential public services across New York is deeply concerning."

CSEA supports candidates – regardless of party – who demonstrate genuine respect for organized labor and a clear understanding of the challenges facing working New Yorkers.

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About CSEA:

The Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) is one of the largest and most influential unions in New York and the United States. CSEA has about 250,000 members and represents state, county, municipal, school district, child care, and private sector employees. Formed in 1910, CSEA has improved the lives of hardworking New Yorkers for more than 100 years, and is the largest affiliate of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). For more information, visit cseany.org.