Stefanik Unleashes Attack Ad on Hochul
Republican candidate for governor, Elise Stefanik, launched a sharp critique of Kathy Hochul on Friday through a new ad that highlights the Democratic governor’s perceived failures. The ad essentially stitches together various shortcomings of Hochul’s time in office.
Titled “In Cathy’s Own Words: This Should Stop the Bulls,” the one-minute ad marks the second digital release by Stefanik since beginning her gubernatorial campaign.
The commercial opens with clips of Hochul along with a news anchor repeating the phrase, “the worst governor in America,” a label Stefanik had previously used when she kicked off her campaign.
As the ad progresses, a narrator claims “Hochul is out of touch,” showcasing troubling footage, including Hochul’s controversial statement from May 2024 about black children from the Bronx not understanding the word “computer.”
Last month, during a rally with prominent figures like Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani and Sen. Bernie Sanders, footage emerged of hecklers chanting at Hochul, where she responded, “I hear you.” This moment is included in the ad, emphasizing its unpopularity.
“It’s unpopular,” the narrator continues, referencing an instance where Hochul faced loud boos at the Ryder Cup golf tournament in September.
“It’s not for us,” the voiceover adds, accompanied by Stefanik criticizing Hochul for allegedly making New York “the cheapest state in America.”
Stefanik counters the governor’s messages with her own words, using a clip of Hochul stating, “This bull shouldn’t stop.”
As the ad wraps up, it declares, “It’s time to save New York,” followed by the phrase “Elise as Governor.”
In a statement, Stefanik remarked that Hochul’s “bullish policies” would come to an end when citizens vote next November. “Cathy Hochul earned the title of America’s worst governor by making New York the least expensive state in the nation,” she said. “These are your words, Kathy. ‘This bull shouldn’t quit.’
Stefanik further emphasized that a change can happen if Republicans, Democrats, and independents unite to remove Hochul from office and implement sensible policies that prioritize affordability and safety in New York.
Recent polling conducted by JL Partners revealed that Stefanik is nearly tied with Hochul, showing the governor with a 46% approval rating, while Stefanik received 43%, indicative of the close race.
