Poll Shows Hochul Leads Despite Desire for New Governor
Governor Kathy Hochul maintains a strong lead over the potential Republican contenders for the 2026 election, even as a new poll indicates that many New Yorkers are in favor of a change in leadership.
A recent Siena College survey revealed that only 37% of voters wish to re-elect Hochul, with 50% preferring a new candidate.
Despite these numbers, Hochul shows a considerable lead against likely Republican candidates, including Rep. Elise Stefanik and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
In hypothetical matchups, Hochul outpaces Stefanik by 19 points, leading 49% to 30%, and holds a 25-point advantage over Blakeman, with a score of 50% to 25%.
“With just six months to the primary and eleven months until the general election, Hochul’s lead remains strong. She’s 19 points ahead of Stefanik, and there’s still around 20% of voters who are undecided. Her 25-point lead over Blakeman is significant,” said Stephen Greenberg from the Siena poll.
Among Democrats, Hochul enjoys robust backing, while Stefanik leads 82% to 7% among Republicans, with Blakeman at 73% to 7%. Independents also lean towards Hochul, who has a 10-point advantage over Blakeman and a 7-point edge over Stefanik.
In a primary scenario, Stefanik would outperform Blakeman, with 48% to 17% in a direct matchup.
Blakeman, who recently declared his candidacy, faces name recognition challenges. A notable 70% of respondents are unfamiliar with him, while 44% are unsure about Stefanik.
However, Blakeman is faring well in suburban areas, boasting a net favorability rating of 22% to 19% in key counties, while Stefanik shows a negative rating of 20% to 27%.
In the Democratic primary, Hochul continues to lead against her only significant challenger, former Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, having a favorable rating of 56% to 13% in a one-on-one matchup.
The latest December poll recorded a somewhat positive approval for Hochul, with 43% rating her favorably against 41% who see her unfavorably. This marks one of the few occasions this year where Siena has reported a positive rating for her.
In comparison, a year ago, she had a more challenging standing, with only 39% favorable and 49% unfavorable ratings.
