Democrats are still trying to pull themselves up from off the mat after the 2024 elections. But so far, there’s no signs that they’ll be able to do so.
And this radical Leftist governor is in major trouble after this devastating news broke.
Neck-and-Neck Race Looms as Stefanik Challenges Hochul for New York Governor, Poll Suggests
A fresh poll reveals a tight contest brewing in New York’s 2026 gubernatorial race, with Upstate Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik hot on the heels of Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul. The survey, conducted by the right-leaning independent firm co/efficient and obtained by the New York Post, shows Hochul with a slim 43% support among New Yorkers, while Stefanik trails closely at 42%. With 15% of voters still undecided, the race is shaping up to be a fierce battle as the 2026 election approaches.
Republican Primary Dynamics
In a potential Republican primary for governor, Stefanik holds a commanding lead, capturing 56% of GOP voter support. Her closest competitors, Hudson Valley Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, lag far behind with 9% and 8%, respectively, according to the co/efficient poll.
A separate Siena College survey released this week paints a similar picture, though with a narrower lead for Stefanik at 35%, compared to 22% for Lawler and 11% for Blakeman.
Voter Sentiment
Hochul’s standing with voters appears shaky, with only 30% approving of her performance, while a striking 57% disapprove, per the co/efficient survey. This marks a steeper decline than the 44% favorability reported in the recent Siena poll.
Meanwhile, President Trump enjoys a stronger 44% favorability rating among New Yorkers, with 49% disapproving, suggesting a more favorable political climate for Republicans than in recent years.
The co/efficient poll, conducted May 1-2 among 1,163 likely voters via phone and text, carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points. Only 23% of respondents believe Hochul deserves another term, while 63% are ready for a new face in Albany.
“Hochul’s re-elect score further highlights her inherent vulnerability,” stated co/efficient pollster Ryan Munce, pointing to her dwindling support.
Stefanik, a prominent figure in Republican circles, has a mixed public image, with 34% of voters rating her favorably, 32% unfavorably, and another 34% either unsure or unfamiliar with her. Munce emphasized that the 2026 race’s outcome could hinge on national Republican momentum, particularly the standing of Trump and congressional Republicans heading into the midterms.
He noted Trump’s improved popularity, especially among men and independent voters, compared to his first term when the 2018 “blue wave” saw Democrats, led by then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, dominate New York’s elections.
Co/efficient has a track record of polling for House Republicans, statewide GOP candidates, and some local Democrats, alongside independent surveys. In 2022, the firm’s polling accurately captured a tight race between Hochul and former Rep. Lee Zeldin, now Trump’s Environmental Protection Secretary, with Hochul ultimately winning by just 6 points.
Hochul Campaign Response
Hochul’s campaign brushed off the poll, vowing to defeat Stefanik should she enter the race. “Elise Stefanik represents the worst of Washington extremism — a staunch Trump loyalist who is gutting New Yorkers’ healthcare and fighting to rip away their rights,” stated Hochul campaign spokesperson Jen Goodman.
“We welcome the opportunity to contrast Gov. Hochul’s record of putting money back in New Yorkers’ pockets, supporting our kids, and keeping communities safe with Stefanik’s out-of-touch, divisive and dangerous record — and fast-track her unemployment once and for all.”
While no Republican has formally declared their candidacy for 2026, Stefanik’s strong showing in the polls signals a potential challenge to Hochul’s hold on the governor’s mansion.
Stay tuned to the Conservative Column.
