new NY poll - After Mandani endorsement, support for Gov. Hochul tanks | Eastern NC Now

A new poll shows the New York governorship is in play in this year's election, not something that was expected in what has been a heavily Democrat state.  The election has narrowed to a 4 point race and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, the county executive of Nassau County, has the momentum over incumbent Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul.

This comes as Hochul has cozied up to radical socialist New York City Mayor Mandani, and Mandani has endorsed Hochul. It also comes after three radical socialists in New York City defeated three Democrat establishment incumbents in congressional primaries.  This endorsement may be a kiss of death to Hochul politically as upstate voters are repulsed by Mandani.  

The poll by Red Oak Strategy showed Hochul's lead over Blakeman down to 47% to 43%.  It also showed Hochul underwater in favorability.  38% of voters see Hochul favorably and 58% unfavorably, leaving her 20 points "underwater".  Meanwhile 30% view Blakeman favorably and 23% unfavorably.  Only 33% say Hochul deserves reelection.

https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-16011797/New-York-Republican-governor-Kathy-Hochul.html

https://nypost.com/2026/07/28/us-news/ny-gop-governor-candidate-bruce-blakeman-trails-hochul-by-just-4-points-in-shocking-new-poll/