However, a recent poll suggests that the majority of New Yorkers are hoping for a different candidate to emerge victorious in the 2026 gubernatorial race.
As reported by Fox News, a poll conducted by Siena College from December 2 to 5 revealed that only 33% of registered voters in New York state would vote to re-elect Hochul for a second term. The majority, 57%, expressed a desire for a different candidate. The poll also showed that even within her own party, Hochul's support is wavering. Only 48% of Democrats stated they are ready to re-elect Hochul, while 40% are hoping for "someone else."
The desire for a new candidate is even more pronounced among independent voters and Republicans, with 65% and 85% respectively preferring another candidate. Hochul, who became New York's first female governor in August 2021 following the resignation of three-term Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo, won a full four-year term in 2022 by a narrow margin over then-Rep. Lee Zeldin. This victory marked the best performance by a Republican gubernatorial nominee in New York since then-GOP Gov. George Pataki's re-election in 2002.
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Despite the polling numbers, Hochul announced her intention to run for re-election in 2026. One factor contributing to her declining popularity is her support for the New York City congestion pricing plan, set to take effect next month. The plan will charge most passenger cars $9 to enter Midtown and Lower Manhattan during peak hours, and $2.25 at other times. The poll indicated that voters oppose Hochul’s plan by a 51%-29% margin, including 56% of New York City voters and six in 10 downstate residents.
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However, Siena College pollster Steven Greenberg noted some positive news for Hochul. Her favorability rating has improved for the second consecutive poll, rising from 36%-51% in October to 39%-49% now. Her job approval rating also increased from 41%-51% in October to 46%-49% now. Despite these improvements, Greenberg pointed out that Hochul's ratings remain "stubbornly underwater."
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December 11, 2024
Greenberg also noted that voters, given a choice, would prefer a Democrat over a Republican as the next governor, by a margin of 52-34%. However, Democratic Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York, who is considering a primary challenge against Hochul, recently expressed concern on social media that Hochul is "in grave danger of losing to a Republican in 2026 – an outcome not seen in 30 years." This statement underscores the precarious position Hochul finds herself in as she prepares for the upcoming election.
