Trump-endorsed Candidate Triumphs in NY GOP Primary, Voter Sentiment Clear

WHO:

WRGB - Anthony Constantino won the GOP primary for New York's 21st Congressional District.

WRGB - Robert Smullen was the other candidate in the GOP primary.

WRGB - Endorsements for Constantino included President Trump, Congressman Jim Jordan, former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, and Roger Stone.

WRGB - Smullen had the endorsement of the NYS Republican Party and County Chairs of NY's 21st Congressional District.

CBS News - Rep. Elise Stefanik did not endorse either candidate during the primary.

WHAT:

WRGB - Constantino held a lead over Smullen of 59.3% to 40.2% with more than 95 percent of the vote counted.

CBS News - Constantino defeated Smullen in the GOP primary to replace Rep. Elise Stefanik.

CBS News - The primary became increasingly bitter with threats of legal action between Constantino and Smullen.

CBS News - Smullen secured the Conservative line on the ballot for the November election.

CBS News - Trump endorsed Constantino, stating, "HE IS A GREAT GUY WHO WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"

WHERE:

WRGB - The GOP primary was for New York's 21st Congressional District.

CBS News - The district stretches from the Canadian border to the northern Albany suburbs.

WHEN:

WRGB - The GOP primary took place on a Tuesday night.

CBS News - The November election is referenced as a future event.

WHY:

CBS News - Constantino's endorsement by Trump was influenced by his support, including a "Vote for Trump" sign at his business headquarters.

HOW:

CBS News - Constantino presented a 7-foot bronze statue to Trump depicting him raising his fist after the Butler assassination attempt.

CBS News - Constantino released a song titled "Trump" with lyrics expressing support for Trump.

(UPDATED June 24, 2026 17:46 UTC)

Anthony Constantino has won the GOP primary for New York's 21st Congressional District, defeating Robert Smullen with a lead of fifty-nine point three percent to forty point two percent, as more than ninety-five percent of the votes have been counted. Constantino received endorsements from notable figures including Trump, Congressman Jim Jordan, and former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, while Smullen secured the Conservative line on the ballot for the upcoming November election. The primary was marked by increasing tensions and threats of legal action between the candidates, with Rep. Elise Stefanik choosing not to endorse either contender.