Staten Island's GOP Reveals STUNNING 2026 Endorsements—You Won't Believe Who Made the Cut!

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Staten Island Republican Party (SIGOP) has officially announced its endorsements for the upcoming 2026 elections, signaling a commitment to both incumbents and new candidates. The party is gearing up for key electoral battles this November, which will include races for state assembly districts, state senate districts, the county civil court, and Staten Island's sole congressional seat.

In their recent statement, the SIGOP highlighted a strategy focused on ensuring that every legislative seat is contested, emphasizing their dedication to offering voters a clear choice for leadership. Here are the candidates endorsed by the Staten Island Republican Party:

• Nicole Malliotakis for New York’s 11th Congressional District
• Ruslan Shamal for New York’s 23rd Senate District
• Andrew Lanza for New York’s 24th Senate District
• Casey O’Connor-Manasia for New York’s 61st Assembly District
• Michael Reilly for New York’s 62nd Assembly District
• Sam Pirozzolo for New York’s 63rd Assembly District
• Michael Tannousis for New York’s 64th Assembly District
• Glenn Yost for Civil Court, Richmond County

“By fielding a candidate for every legislative seat, the Staten Island Republican Party is ensuring that no neighborhood is left behind. When voters look at their ballots this November, they will be met with a real choice to elect dedicated leaders who will fight for their community,” the statement read.

A Closer Look at the Candidates

Among the key endorsements, Congressmember Nicole Malliotakis expressed her gratitude for the nomination as she aims to continue representing Staten Island and Southern Brooklyn. “I am honored to once again receive the Republican nomination in my campaign to continue serving the people of Staten Island and Southern Brooklyn in Congress,” Malliotakis stated. She emphasized her accomplishments, including increasing the SALT deduction and cutting taxes for seniors and working families.

Ruslan Shamal is set to challenge Democratic incumbent Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. A Belarusian immigrant, Shamal articulated his commitment to fighting against higher taxes and advocating for public safety. “I came to the United States to build a life in a free country, and I’m not going to sit back while the DSA Democrats push New York toward higher taxes, weaker public safety, and more government control,” he asserted.

On the other hand, incumbent Sen. Andrew Lanza, also endorsed, highlighted the economic struggles tied to New York's left-wing policies. “New York’s left-wing policies have made our state increasingly unaffordable, driving a record exodus of families who are crushed by higher taxes and soaring costs for electricity, heating, and groceries,” he stated. His focus remains on legislative efforts that prioritize affordability and safety.

In the assembly races, candidates such as Casey O’Connor-Manasia and Michael Reilly emphasized the need for reform. O’Connor-Manasia, who is challenging Democratic Deputy Majority Leader Charles D. Fall, spoke about the impact of Albany’s policies on small businesses. “I have seen firsthand how the harmful policies coming out of Albany are crushing our small businesses,” she said, stressing the need for relief.

Reilly, running for reelection in the 62nd Assembly District, echoed similar sentiments, focusing on community safety and quality of life. “Together, we remain committed to fighting for safer neighborhoods, lower taxes, stronger schools, and a better quality of life for every family on Staten Island,” he noted.

Sam Pirozzolo, vying for the 63rd Assembly District, also highlighted his achievements while calling for continued efforts to defend Staten Island from “radical socialist policies.” He remarked, “We’ve had big wins so far, like shutting down battery sites, but there’s plenty more to do.”

Lastly, Glenn Yost, who is pursuing a position in the Civil Court, emphasized his extensive background, including two decades as an NYPD Detective. “I view the Civil Court as a vital institution for our residents. If elected, I will approach the bench with integrity,” he affirmed.

As the election season heats up, the Staten Island Republican Party is positioning itself to engage voters across all demographics, aiming to ensure that the voices of Staten Islanders are represented in the coming legislative sessions. The endorsements reflect a blend of established politicians and new challengers, all committed to addressing the pressing issues facing the community.