News Summary
New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s lead over Republican challenger Elise Stefanik shrinks to five points according to a recent internal poll. The survey reveals voter disapproval of Hochul’s job performance and potential challenges she may face, particularly with independent voters. Meanwhile, Stefanik is positioning herself for a strong campaign. The political landscape is shifting with concerns over Hochul’s popularity and her endorsement of a controversial candidate. As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, both candidates are gearing up for a competitive race.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is facing a narrowing lead over her Republican challenger, Elise Stefanik, as a recent internal poll reveals Hochul only has a five-point advantage with the election for the 2026 midterms approaching. Commissioned by Stefanik’s political action committee (PAC), the poll surveyed 1,250 likely voters and indicates that Hochul currently leads with 48% compared to Stefanik’s 43% in a direct ballot.
However, when voters are informed of both candidates’ records, Hochul’s lead diminishes. In this scenario, Stefanik edges out Hochul with 46.4% to Hochul’s 45.9%, highlighting a potential shift in voter sentiment. The poll also underscores significant concerns about Hochul’s approval rating, with 56% of likely voters disapproving of her job performance and only 39% expressing approval. Furthermore, 34% of respondents are inclined to re-elect Hochul, while a notable 59% believe it is time for a new leader.
The poll indicates that Hochul faces significant challenges, especially relating to her endorsement of socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. This endorsement appears to have alienated many independent voters, as 47% of them indicated they would be less likely to support Hochul or other Democrats if Mamdani wins the mayoral race. Pollster Landon Wall categorized Hochul’s position as “deeply vulnerable,” reflecting the fragility of her coalition.
In a hypothetical Democratic primary against Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, Hochul is also struggling. She garnered only 43% of support in that scenario, with Delgado receiving 14% and 28% undecided. This potential intra-party competition could further complicate Hochul’s efforts to maintain her post as governor.
As for Elise Stefanik, she seems poised to secure the Republican nomination once she formally announces her campaign, which is anticipated after the upcoming November elections. Republican strategists consider winning support in upstate New York and in the outer suburbs of New York City to be crucial for their success in the gubernatorial race.
The internal poll results are at odds with a previous Siena Research Institute prediction which indicated Hochul held a commanding 25-point lead over Stefanik. This sharp contrast has motivated Stefanik’s campaign to highlight the significance of their internal findings, suggesting that Hochul is “running scared.”
Amid the shifting political landscape, Hochul’s team has denounced the poll as a strategic maneuver by Stefanik to divert attention from her own political record. Nonetheless, the endorsement of Mamdani remains a focal point of contention for Stefanik’s campaign, which has characterized Mamdani negatively in an effort to sway voter opinions against Hochul. Stefanik has described Hochul as “the worst Governor in America,” asserting that her support for Mamdani reflects her vulnerability and political failures.
As the 2026 gubernatorial election approaches, Hochul’s low approval ratings and the unpopularity of her political choices may present significant barriers to her re-election efforts. Voter sentiment, particularly among independents, could prove decisive as both candidates gear up for a competitive race.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Times Union: Hochul’s Lead Over Stefanik Narrows
- Google Search: New York Governor election 2026
- New York Post: Stefanik vs Hochul Poll
- Wikipedia: Kathy Hochul
- Politico: Hochul’s Strategy with Zohran
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elise Stefanik
- Capitol Confidential: Hochul’s Response to Stefanik
- Google News: Hochul Stefanik polls
- Bloomberg: Stefanik’s Strategy for Governor’s Race
- CBS News: Siena Poll for Hochul and Stefanik
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
