New York Republicans, whose state may determine whether their party controls the House, believe they have a wild card within the blue state: Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Rep. Elise Stefanik’s (R-NY) exit from the gubernatorial race last week opened the door to Blakeman to face off against Gov. Kathy Hochul (D-NY) next year, and Republicans are optimistic. They believe he can boost downballot Republicans in competitive House races, even if his chances of winning outright against Hochul are tough.