Debra Messing endorses Bruce Blakeman for New York governor

Actress Debra Messing has endorsed Republican Bruce Blakeman for New York governor, citing the cost of living and what she described as worsening conditions in New York City. Her support is a departure from her previous backing of Democratic candidates and places her behind Blakeman in his challenge to incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul in November’s election. Messing made the endorsement at a Manhattan fundraiser for Blakeman on October 1 and later appeared with him in a campaign video. She said residents were struggling with expenses, particularly utility costs, and pointed to the Manhattan congestion pricing toll as another burden. She also said the city had lost businesses and residents and no longer felt as she remembered it. Messing called Blakeman the candidate focused on affordability and said she believed he was the answer. Blakeman, the Nassau County executive and Republican nominee, has pledged that, if elected, he would eliminate state income taxes on the first $50,000 of income for single filers and $100,000 for married couples.