Campaign Funding in New York
ALBANY – Governor Kathy Hochul is building a significant campaign fund early this year, while potential opponent Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) is also boasting impressive fundraising numbers.
According to Hochul’s campaign, the Democratic governor raised around $4 million in the first half of 2025 for her re-election bid, bringing her total funds to about $17.5 million.
“In the last six months, we’ve seen Gov. Kathy Hochul take on Donald Trump and make strides towards a safer, more affordable New York, with grassroots support from every county,” a spokesperson stated.
Despite Hochul’s early funding lead, her rival has already reported strong financial figures as well.
Stefanik, who hasn’t formally declared her candidacy yet, reportedly raised $4 million through her campaign and various committees over the past quarter.
Her team claims this is a record amount for New York Republicans in a single quarter during an off-cycle year. “I am grateful for the overwhelming early support from grassroots donors across New York and beyond,” Stefanik mentioned in a statement.
She added, “I will continue to pursue President Trump’s historic goals in Congress and aim for a Republican victory that can unseat Kathy Hochul next year.”
In total, Stefanik has accumulated approximately $11 million across her accounts, having raised $138,000 in the first quarter of 2025.
These funds could be essential if she decides to officially enter the race.
Potential GOP challenger Congressman Mike Lawler announced that he raised $1.4 million in the second quarter of 2025, leaving him with around $2.2 million on hand, supplemented by $1.5 million from his Congressional campaign in the first quarter of the year.
“New Yorkers in Hudson Valley are frustrated with extremism and political theatrics. Rep. Lawler is focusing on issues like middle-class tax relief, which could help him secure re-election next November,” his team stated.
Meanwhile, it’s not just Republicans securing funding. Lt. Col. Antonio Delgado, running against Hochul, reported raising about $1.5 million within just a few weeks of launching his campaign. His spokesperson claimed this indicates real momentum and suggests that they have the necessary resources to share Delgado’s vision for change.
Earlier this year, Hochul’s camp mentioned raising about $7 million for state Democratic efforts.
That figure is significant for Hochul, as she positions her campaign to support Democratic efforts across New York’s Congressional districts and other races.
Facing a primary challenge from the left by Delgado, these financial reserves could prove vital for Hochul. Additionally, she might feel pressure from other Democratic candidates, such as Zohran Mamdani, who could complicate her strategy in the upcoming election.
