Hochul’s Lead Over Blakeman Narrows in New York Gubernatorial Race

New York’s Democratic Governor, Kathy Hochul, is seeing a decline in her lead over Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman. This shift follows a recent Siena University poll, which shows her lead diminishing as the election approaches. With less than three months until Election Day, Hochul leads Blakeman 49% to 39% among likely voters in New York State. This is a decrease from a previous poll in June that put her ahead by 52% to 32% among registered voters.

During her initial time as governor, four years prior, Hochul led her opponent by 14 points in August 2022. She eventually won that election by six points. Siena pollster Steven Greenberg commented on these dynamics, reflecting on Hochul’s previous campaign against former Republican Congressman Lee Zeldin.

Blakeman, Nassau County executive, responded to these findings. He stated that other polls indicate a much closer race, suggesting they are nearly tied with Hochul. Blakeman criticized the poll’s history of inaccuracy and underscored the impact of high taxes and crime on Hochul’s governance.

The Siena University Poll was conducted from August 3-6, surveying 811 likely voters in New York. The margin of error stands at +/- 4.6 percentage points. Fox News Digital has reached out to Hochul’s campaign for their take on the poll results.

The poll also explored how voters perceive the candidates on key issues. Hochul is seen as better at making prices affordable (48-41%) and increasing affordable housing (51-35%). Voters are more divided on safety and immigration, with Hochul slightly ahead.

Both candidates retain support within their parties, with Hochul having strong backing from Democrats and Blakeman similarly favored by Republicans. Independent voters lean slightly towards Blakeman with a 45-40% preference. Hochul has a strong lead in New York City but faces challenges in the suburbs and upstate regions.

The poll introduced questions about the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and found a generally negative view. Democrats view the DSA favorably, whereas Republicans and independents have a largely unfavorable perception.