Suffolk County Republican Chairman Jesse Garcia delivered an energetic call to action at the New York State Republican Convention in Garden City, telling delegates that the future of New York rests squarely in their hands as they nominated Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul.
“We keep the fight going right through tonight and right into tomorrow,” Garcia told party members gathered at the Garden City Hotel. “Because what is in your hands, in your hands, is the future of our Empire State. And it is in your hands.”
Garcia framed the gubernatorial race as a team effort, urging unity across the ballot. “You’re gonna elect Bruce Blakeman and his entire team to run it up,” he said. “We’re talking about a team. We’re talking about a team.”
The Suffolk GOP chairman praised the presence of party activists from across New York. “It’s great to see delegates and volunteers from the state of New York here,” Garcia said, adding that grassroots energy would be critical in the months ahead.
He also singled out Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt for praise, describing him as “one of the best allies” he has in state government. Garcia called Ortt “a fighter” who “likes to take the fight to the State Senate over and over again,” and credited him with having “broken their supermajority.”
“He’s brought his skills as an Army veteran and he’s brought it to the chamber floor,” Garcia said.
Looking ahead to November, Garcia predicted that a strong showing at the top of the ticket would reverberate throughout state government. “With a big Bruce Blakeman win, we’re gonna make Rob Ortt the majority leader,” he declared.
“There’s a lot at stake,” Garcia said. “Keep the fight going.”