Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) is closely competing with incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, according to a recent poll.
Stefanik, who is a strong supporter of President Donald Trump, appears to be the most formidable contender against Hochul among various potential candidates. The findings from the poll noted that Hochul, up for re-election next year, garnered 43% of voter support, while Stefanik closely follows with 42%. Interestingly, around 15% of New Yorkers remain undecided.
Stefanik, elected to Congress at the age of 30 in 2014, stands as a significant Republican presence against New York State Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who received 9% and 8% respectively in relation to Hochul.
The survey also indicated that Hochul’s approval rating is at a mere 30%, based on responses from nearly 1,200 voters regarding the upcoming gubernatorial election.
In addition, the same poll found that Trump enjoys a 44% support rating among New York voters. However, only 23% of those surveyed believe Hochul “deserves reelection,” while almost two-thirds expressed a desire for a new governor. This further underlines Hochul’s precarious position.
Pollster Ryan Munce remarked that Hochul’s re-election prospects illustrate her pronounced vulnerabilities. The results from this survey emerged shortly after Siena University’s opinion poll, which indicated a similar trend, revealing Stefanik’s lead over other Republican candidates, with her attracting support from 35% of GOP voters, compared to 22% for Lawler and 11% for Blakeman.
While Republicans have not formally declared their candidates for the governor’s race, Stefanik’s senior adviser, Alex Degrasse, indicated that she could be a strong contender if she chooses to run.
“We now have another independent poll confirming what many already know. After President Trump, Elise Stefanik stands out as New York’s most popular Republican. If she runs, the primary will be rigorous, and she could potentially defeat Kathy Hochul in the general election,” a statement elaborated.
A spokesperson for Hochul’s campaign dismissed Stefanik, labeling her as “extremist” and emphasizing that she is a loyalist to Trump, accusing her of undermining New Yorkers’ healthcare and rights.
“We are eager to contrast our record of financial relief and assistance to families against Stefanik’s divisive and harmful actions,” added Hochul’s spokeswoman, Jen Goodman.
