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A recent Siena College poll reveals that New York Governor Kathy Hochul holds significant leads over potential Republican challengers for the 2026 gubernatorial race. According to the poll, Hochul leads Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman 44% to 19%, U.S. Representative Elise Stefanik 47% to 24%, and U.S. Representative Mike Lawler 44% to 24%. Despite these leads, Hochul does not surpass the 51% mark against any opponent, and a notable portion of voters remain undecided in each matchup.
The poll also indicates that within the Democratic Party, Hochul is favored over potential primary challengers, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado and U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres, with 49% support compared to 12% and 10%, respectively. Among Republicans, Stefanik is the preferred candidate with 35% support, ahead of Lawler at 18% and Blakeman at 7%.
Governor Hochul's favorability rating stands at 42% favorable to 47% unfavorable, a slight decline from May. Her job approval rating remains steady at 50% approve to 45% disapprove. The survey also highlights that 37% of voters are inclined to re-elect Hochul, while 55% prefer a different candidate.
The Siena College poll surveyed 800 registered voters in New York State between June 23 and June 26, with a margin of error of 4.4 points. Despite Hochul's current lead, the poll underscores a significant portion of the electorate's desire for new leadership, with 50% of respondents believing New York is headed in the wrong direction.