Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino is planning to run for New York Rep. Elise Stefanik’s seat after her appointment to serve in the Trump administration. Constantino, a pro-Trump businessman who self-funded a large “Vote for Trump” sign in upstate New York, intends to use $2.6 million of his own money for his campaign. He believes the country needs more outsiders with talent in politics, similar to President Trump. Stefanik’s appointment to the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations will create a vacancy in the 21st Congressional District, setting the stage for a special election.
Constantino, formerly a registered Democrat, feels that his lack of prior political ambitions makes him a stronger candidate. He was inspired to get involved in politics after speaking out against “anti-Trump hate” following a failed assassination attempt on Trump during a campaign rally. Constantino believes that Trump has done great things and does not deserve the hate directed towards him. He aims to unify the country and make a positive impact in Congress if elected. His main priorities would be to support businesses and bring enthusiasm back to New York.
The special election in the 21st Congressional District will not have a traditional Republican primary. Instead, party chairs in the district will choose the nominees. Other potential candidates for the GOP nomination include ousted Rep. Marc Molinaro, Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, and various state Senators and Assembly Members. Constantino, known for his viral pro-Trump sign, hopes to fund his campaign without relying on party resources. He plans to meet with GOP chairs in his district and hopes to win Stefanik’s support, given her likely influence in choosing her successor.
Constantino is motivated to run for Congress by a desire to “do big things” and make a positive impact. He believes that the anti-Trump sentiment that was prevalent before the election is now diminishing. With a focus on supporting businesses and making New York a better place to live, Constantino sees running for Congress as the most impactful thing he can do with his life. He wants to show both Democrats and Republicans that New York is a welcoming place for all parties and aims to bring energy and enthusiasm back to the state.
The $2.6 million that Constantino plans to use for his campaign represents a significant investment in his bid for office. He wants to avoid being beholden to special interests and hopes to demonstrate through self-funding that he is running for the right reasons. Constantino’s status as a wealthy self-made man and his popularity among the online MAGA movement due to his viral pro-Trump sign could give him an advantage in the special election. His willingness to fund his campaign independently and his focus on doing what is morally right and best for the people set him apart from other potential candidates.
