Rep. Elise Stefanik received the World Jewish Congress’ highest honor, the Theodor Herzl Award, for her work in combating antisemitism and promoting Western values, just days after announcing her candidacy for New York governor. The award, presented by businessman and former U.S. ambassador Ronald Lauder, is the organization’s highest recognition for individuals who embody Theodor Herzl’s vision of a secure and self-reliant Jewish people.
Stefanik, who has been a vocal advocate against rising antisemitism, used the occasion to officially launch her campaign for New York governor. Speaking before 400 guests at the Museum of Modern Art in Manhattan, she described the state as the epicenter of the ‘battle for Western values that have shaped America.’ Her remarks followed a surge in antisemitic incidents across New York, which she noted reached an all-time high in the past year — the highest in the nation.
Her campaign includes the support of billionaire philanthropist Miriam Adelson, who lauded Stefanik’s efforts against antisemitism and described her as a ‘great leader’ for defending the Jewish people, Israel, and the Free World. Adelson, the wife of late Google co-founder Sheldon Adelson, has been a strong proponent of Israel and free speech, aligning her support with Stefanik’s advocacy.
Stefanik, once a critic of President Donald Trump during his 2016 presidential run, has since become one of his most vocal defenders in Congress, particularly on issues related to antisemitism and free speech. Her shift in political alignment highlights the broader realignment within the Republican Party, where positions on these issues often serve as key differentiators among candidates.
As she steps into the 2026 gubernatorial race, Stefanik’s campaign faces the challenges of not only countering the incumbent Democratic governor, Kathy Hochul, but also navigating the complex political landscape of New York, where her conservative stance could resonate with key voter demographics. The support from figures like Adelson and the World Jewish Congress underscores the strategic importance of her campaign in the region.