Actress Debra Messing Endorses Republican Bruce Blakeman for New York Governor

Actress Debra Messing, known for her role in the sitcom "Will & Grace" and past support for Democratic candidates, has endorsed Republican Bruce Blakeman for New York governor. The endorsement marks a significant shift for Messing, who previously supported Hillary Clinton and Cynthia Nixon.

Messing announced her support at a recent fundraiser for Blakeman in Manhattan. She expressed concerns about what she described as an exponential and devastating decline in New York City over the last four years, affecting the economy and society. "The decline in this city over the last four years has been so exponential and devastating — economically, socially and on every level," Messing stated. "And obviously, we’ve lost so much business here. People are leaving."

She added, "It’s not the city I love anymore. I believe in all my heart that you are the answer. You are the affordable campaign, candidate."

Messing also highlighted concerns about the cost of living in New York, referencing issues like high utility costs and the proposed congestion pricing toll for entering Manhattan. She stated, "People are just really struggling. They need their utilities to be lower. It’s just too expensive to live in New York City, and I love the fact that is at the top of your mind."

The actress, who is Jewish, has also been vocal about her outrage over the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas. She participated in hanging posters of hostages in Times Square and has criticized what she calls "left-wing anti-Israel" sentiment. Messing previously endorsed Andrew Cuomo in his unsuccessful bid for mayor against Zohran Mamdani, whom she has referred to with derogatory terms.

Blakeman, in turn, thanked Messing for her support, calling her "courageous" for speaking out and stating that she is "trying as hard as she can to save New York and to make sure it’s safe for Jewish people."

Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, has also proposed eliminating taxes on the first $50,000 of income for single filers and $100,000 for married couples if elected governor. This proposal aims to provide a significant financial lift to many households, particularly in rural areas of New York.

Messing's past political engagement included stumping for Hillary Clinton and donating to Cynthia Nixon's 2018 gubernatorial campaign. She also faced criticism in 2019 for calling for donors to a Trump fundraiser to be publicly shamed. Blakeman, conversely, is a strong supporter of Israel, a stance that has drawn attention amid discussions about political positions on Jewish issues.