BRONX, N.Y. –

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman is trying to attract disgruntled Democrats in his quest to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul. He believes that the growing dissatisfaction related to issues like affordability, crime, and the leftward shift of the Democratic Party could give him a chance with voters who traditionally lean Democrat.

Former Democratic Bronx Assemblyman Stephen Kaufman offered strong criticisms during a rally with Blakeman at the Crosstown Diner. He suggested that the current party has strayed far from its roots. “They’re not Democrats. They’re socialists and communists,” he told Fox News Digital, emphasizing that what’s left is not moderate.

Voters at the diner voiced similar frustrations. “More and more Democrats are coming up to me, saying, ‘Bruce, I’ve always voted Democrat, but this time I’m with you,’” Blakeman recounted.

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Kaufman warned that the Democratic Socialists of America are gaining more influence within the party, claiming it’s becoming “a house of hatred” that increasingly excludes moderate voices.

Bronx residents echoed these sentiments, citing rising living costs, safety issues, and the Democratic Party’s progressive turn as signs they’ve been politically let down. “It’s not your grandfather’s Democratic Party anymore. It’s become the Democratic Socialist… or maybe even Communist Party,” said Lisa, a Throggs Neck resident.

An additional Bronx voter expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s stance on housing issues, criticizing Hochul for not defending homeowners against the socialists’ narrative of “land-hoarding.”

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Blakeman contends that growing frustration with Hochul’s governance could pave the way for a Republican breakthrough in a state long dominated by Democrats. “Kathy Hochul has raised taxes and utility rates multiple times. Programs like cashless bail make it easier for criminals in our neighborhoods,” he argued, asserting that her report card reflects failing grades.

Kaufman echoed this sentiment, accusing Hochul of moving further left, aligning herself with the party’s more radical factions.

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“Electricity rates are out of control. There have been numerous hikes. She’s stifled the expansion of gas lines and closed utility plants. Her policies do not resonate with the people in my community,” Kaufman remarked.

Blakeman, on the other hand, promises to cut both taxes and utility bills while enhancing safety in communities. “I will reduce taxes and make communities safer, just as I did in my tenure as county executive,” he said.

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In his remarks, Blakeman highlighted his record as Nassau County executive, noting he hasn’t raised taxes in five years and has actually cut them by $150 million. “I’ll stack my record against hers any day,” he stated, asserting his commitment to slashing taxes and bills.

He pointed out that the socialist movement in the Democratic Party has shifted from the fringes to positions of prominence, especially in New York, where candidates backed by Democratic Socialists succeeded in elections. Similar victories have been seen outside New York, further emphasizing the party’s leftward evolution.

Fox News Digital reached out to Hochul’s office for a response.