Bruce Blakeman, the 70-year-old Republican candidate for New York governor, reflected recently on the unique personal connection he shares with Sir Paul McCartney, 84, who is married to Blakeman’s ex-wife, Nancy Shevell. Despite political differences, Blakeman expressed respect for the former Beatle and his role as a stepfather to Blakeman’s son.

Speaking on the Errol Louis NY1 podcast, Blakeman described McCartney as a “nice guy” who treats his son, Arlen, 34, well. He acknowledged the somewhat surreal nature of Shevell’s marriage to a rock legend but downplayed any tension, noting that the two men do not discuss politics.

McCartney, known for his activism on environmental issues and criticism of former President Donald Trump, has openly expressed disapproval of Trump’s leadership. In his 2021 book, “The Lyrics: 1956 to the Present,” McCartney referred to Trump as a “braggart” who “shouts the loudest” but is “not necessarily the smartest.” By contrast, Blakeman has been a vocal supporter of Trump, who endorsed his gubernatorial campaign and described him as “100% MAGA.”

Blakeman was married to Shevell for 23 years, from 1984 until their amicable divorce in 2007. He remarried in 2015 to Nassau County Family Court Judge Segal Blakeman. He praised his current wife as “smart and beautiful” and highlighted their blended family, which includes two stepchildren and three grandchildren.

Shevell, 66, who married McCartney in 2011, has a background in the transportation industry, having served as a trucking executive at her family’s hauling company and as a member of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority board.

Blakeman expressed goodwill toward Shevell, emphasizing the positive memories from their marriage and their shared commitment to their son. He said, “I wish [Shevell] well. We were married for 23 years. We had a wonderful child together.” Despite the unusual family dynamic, Blakeman said he is focused on the future, noting, “Life goes on.”