ALBANY – A Trump-mega fan business owner who once claimed a high-ranking pol put a hit out on him said he will run to replace Rep. Elise Stefanik in the Empire State’s North Country.
Anthony Constantino, who drew headlines for erecting a massive “Vote for Trump” sign on top of his Amsterdam-based business and fighting over the displays in court, sets up a possible Republican primary to replace Stefanik — who is leaving the House to challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2026.
“I’ve enjoyed tremendous success and politics is my way of giving back,” Constantino said in a nearly 30-minute speech announcing his candidacy.
The speech was delivered in front of a wall made up of several dozen turkeys, which he was handing out to attendees.
“The world is changing and we need political leaders that get it. Instead we’ve been stuck with dinosaurs whose top concern is often their next donor-funded meal,” he added.
The businessman, CEO of a company Sticker Mule, is well-known for his eccentric behavior including accusing state Conservative Party Chairman Jerry Kassar of putting out a hit on him.
Constantino said he will “completely” self-fund his campaign in which he’ll face state Assemblyman Robert Smulle (R-Fulton), a retired Marine colonel.
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Other candidates may also throw their hats in the ring.
“I’m here to ask for your support, your family’s support, and the support of — well, anyone else you know as I’ve officially decided to run for Congress,” he said.
Stefanik told News 12 Monday that she would not weigh in on the race.
“I am not at his point making an endorsement,” Stefanik said.
Two Democrats – Blake Gendebien and Dylan Hewitt – are also running, though the district is rated by Cook Political Report as safely Republican, even with Stefanik’s exit.
“I’m certainly confident that the Republican will win in the general election,” Stefanik added.
