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Hochul's Lead Narrows in Tightening NY Governor Race

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A Siena poll shows Governor Kathy Hochul (D-N.Y.) leading Bruce Blakeman (R-N.Y.) by 20 points, down from 26 in January.
Hochul's favorability has declined slightly.
Blakeman's favorability has improved.
The race has tightened as Republican voters returned to Blakeman and Hochul's lead narrowed among men and in downstate suburbs.
Betting odds favor Hochul, with the race deemed likely Democratic.

History

Historical Context

Andrew Cuomo was elected governor of New York in 2010, winning 62.6% of the vote against Republican Carl Paladino, reflecting the state's Democratic leanings. This election followed the resignation of Governor David Paterson in 2008 amid a scandal. The current race between Kathy Hochul and Bruce Blakeman echoes past electoral dynamics, as shifting voter sentiments could reshape future political strategies in New York.

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Story summary

A Siena poll shows Governor Kathy Hochul (D-N.Y.) leading Bruce Blakeman (R-N.Y.) by 20 points, down from 26 in January.
Hochul's favorability has declined slightly.
Blakeman's favorability has improved.
The race has tightened as Republican voters returned to Blakeman and Hochul's lead narrowed among men and in downstate suburbs.
Betting odds favor Hochul, with the race deemed likely Democratic.

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