Hochul Dominates: New Poll Shows 11-Point Lead Over Blakeman in NY Governor Race

Hochul Holds Double-Digit Lead as Election Day Nears

With just weeks until Election Day on Nov. 3, a new Marist Poll reveals Gov. Kathy Hochul leading Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman by 11 points among registered voters. The poll, conducted Thursday through Sunday, shows Hochul with 53% support compared to Blakeman's 42%.

This latest survey echoes recent findings from Siena Poll and Quinnipiac Poll, which had Hochul leading by 9 and 19 points, respectively. The consistent advantage suggests a strong position for the incumbent as the campaign enters its final stretch.

Hochul Touts Achievements, Blakeman Focuses on Crime

Gov. Hochul, leveraging the powers of incumbency, was in New York City on Wednesday to highlight the success of a pilot program that installed fare evasion doors in 20 subway stations. According to Hochul, the program led to a 35% drop in riders skipping out on paying.

"Now, based on the results in this pilot, already we know that this will save ratepayers, taxpayers nearly $100 million per year that otherwise was stolen in fares," Hochul said. The good news for subway riders: 70 more stations will get the doors by the end of next year, with the MTA aiming to outfit all 472 stations eventually.

Meanwhile, Blakeman campaigned in Queens along Roosevelt Avenue, an area he says is plagued by brazen shoplifting and unchecked prostitution. He blamed Hochul for the rise of gangs like Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and the 18th Street Gang, citing policies such as cashless bail, Raise the Age, and the HALT Act.

"These people are preying on our communities, and Kathy Hochul is responsible," Blakeman said. He promised change if elected, resonating with some residents. One New Yorker expressed fear: "Some residents stay away from shopping from Roosevelt Avenue out of fear. I do not know what the governor or the mayor is doing, but it's clearly not working. As a woman, I can say none of us feel safe."

Trump Factor Looms Large

Blakeman is hoping that an appearance with President Trump in Syracuse on Friday will boost his campaign. However, the president's job approval rating in New York is underwater: only 38% of New Yorkers approve of his performance, while 60% disapprove. This could prove to be a double-edged sword for Blakeman, as he seeks to energize his base without alienating moderate voters.

As the race heats up, all eyes will be on the candidates' final pushes before Nov. 3.