New York Gubernatorial Race Tightens as Hochul’s Lead Narrows

New York Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul’s lead over Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman is decreasing, according to a new Siena University poll. The poll, released on Wednesday, shows Hochul ahead of Blakeman by 49-39% among likely voters in New York. This is down from a 52-32% lead in June when registered voters were surveyed.

Siena pollster Steven Greenberg highlighted that four years ago, in August 2022, Hochul led her opponent by 14 points before winning the election by six points. Blakeman, current Nassau County executive, commented on recent polls indicating a tight race with Hochul. He criticized the poll as inaccurate and claimed, “All of the polls we have seen in the last two months have us virtually tied with Kathy Hochul.”

“This poll is always off and continues to be off,” Blakeman said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

Blakeman alleged that Hochul’s policies on taxes, electric bills, and crime have made her the “worst governor in America.” The Siena University Poll, conducted from August 3-6 with 811 likely voters, reported a margin of error of approximately 4.6%.

The poll suggests likely voters think Hochul is better equipped to handle reducing living costs and increasing affordable housing. She leads Blakeman 48-41% on pricing and 51-35% on housing. On safety and immigration, Hochul narrowly leads Blakeman, with 47-44% and 45-44%, respectively.

In terms of voter support, Hochul retains a strong lead among Democrats with 80-8%, while Blakeman leads Republicans 84-9%. Independent voters slightly favor Blakeman at 45-40%. Geographic support indicates Hochul’s dominance in New York City by 64-19%, yet she trails Blakeman by eight points in downstate suburbs. They are evenly matched in upstate regions.

The Siena Research Institute also questioned voters about the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Results showed mixed perceptions, with a 30-47% unfavorable rating. Democrats tend to view the DSA favorably, whereas Republicans and independents hold largely unfavorable views.

In a related note, Bruce Blakeman received former President Donald Trump’s endorsement in his run against Hochul. The poll’s findings add uncertainty to the outcome of the gubernatorial race as both candidates prepare for Election Day.