Billionaire Emerges As New York’s Largest GOP Donor After Previously Backing Dems

Millions more have flowed into super PACs that have begun supporting Blakeman as he attempts to defeat Hochul in November.

The development represents a significant change for Dolan, who has previously financially supported Democrats including Hochul and former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

Dolan’s financial support could also become important in the national battle for control of Congress because Republicans are counting on Blakeman to run competitively enough to boost GOP turnout in several closely divided House districts.

New York helped Republicans capture control of the House in 2022 when Lee Zeldin’s unexpectedly competitive gubernatorial campaign coincided with Republican congressional gains across the state.

The GOP hopes Blakeman can produce a similar down-ballot effect this November even as current polling shows him trailing Hochul.

A recent Siena poll placed Hochul at 49 percent and Blakeman at 39 percent among likely New York voters.

Republicans are particularly focused on competitive congressional districts in the New York City suburbs that could become decisive in determining which party controls the narrowly divided House.

Dolan’s emergence as a major Republican benefactor also comes after billionaire cosmetics heir Ronald Lauder reportedly stopped his political giving following years as one of the New York GOP’s most important financial supporters.