Trump rallies in Syracuse with Mike Tyson to boost Bruce Blakeman’s gubernatorial bid

President Donald Trump held a campaign rally in Syracuse, New York on Oct. 9, 2026, joining former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson to endorse Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman against incumbent Democrat Kathy Hochul.

The rally underscores the Trump campaign’s effort to sway New York voters in a state that has long leaned Democratic, and it aims to lift down‑ballot Republican candidates ahead of the November midterm elections.

Mike Tyson flew with the president after meeting him at the White House earlier in the day. According to multiple reports, Tyson delivered a letter to Trump that originated from disgraced rapper and producer Sean “Diddy” Combs, a detail that has drawn additional media attention.

During the event, Trump praised Tyson, saying, “I won’t be fighting him today, but I’ve been his fan for a long time. We’ve been friends for a long time, Iron Mike, ain’t nobody like him.” He added that the crowd would be happy to see the former boxing champion and highlighted Blakeman as “a great gentleman” fighting for New York.

Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, is seeking to unseat Governor Kathy Hochul, who has held the office since 2021. Political analysts note that the race is a long shot for the Republican nominee in a state that routinely votes Democratic in statewide contests.

The president’s remarks were scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time, and the rally attracted a sold‑out audience, according to organizers. Trump emphasized the momentum of the campaign, noting that his rallies have been “sold out at every arena” and that “there’s a line waiting, trying to get in.”

With the election less than two months away, both parties are intensifying outreach in key swing areas. The Syracuse event marks one of the highest‑profile GOP appearances in New York this cycle, and the campaign will continue to schedule rallies and media appearances as the November vote approaches.