Trump-backed challenger beats establishment GOP candidate in primary to replace Stefanik

Anthony Constantino, a businessman endorsed by former President Donald Trump, has secured a victory in the Republican primary for New York's 21st Congressional District. Constantino, a political newcomer, defeated Robert Smullen, a state assemblymember who had garnered support from the state Republican Party and local officials.

The race for the upstate New York seat, which stretches from the Canadian border to the northern Albany suburbs, grew increasingly bitter. Both Constantino and Smullen reportedly threatened legal action against each other over campaign claims. Following a May debate, Smullen declined to shake Constantino's hand, highlighting the animosity between the candidates.

Complicating matters for the Republican party's hold on the seat is Smullen's nomination by the Conservative Party, which already guarantees him a spot on the November ballot. It remains uncertain if Smullen will withdraw from the race.

Constantino's campaign heavily leaned on his support for Trump. He famously displayed a large "Vote for Trump" sign at his company headquarters after the 2024 assassination attempt on the former president. Trump referenced this sign in his endorsement, calling Constantino a "Great Supporter" and "a GREAT GUY WHO WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!" Constantino also presented Trump with a bronze statue and released a song praising him.

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Anthony has been such a Great Supporter that he actually put up a somewhat 'controversial' sign, against strong opposition, in my honor. The sign is still there! HE IS A GREAT GUY WHO WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!