New York Governor Race Eve of Vote: Hochul Leads Blakeman by About 14 Points in Final Polls

New York Governor Kathy Hochul heads into the final day of the governor's race with a double-digit lead in the polls. The latest Siena Research Institute poll, reported by Fox News, puts Hochul at about 54% against Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, at 40% — a gap of about 14 points.

Two polls point the same way

The Siena poll, conducted October 19–22, showed Hochul ahead 54% to 40%. A Quinnipiac University poll released October 21 found a similar margin, with Hochul at 55% and Blakeman at 41%. Polls capture intentions at the time of the survey, not the result; the outcome will be decided by the November 3 vote.

The closing arguments

Blakeman spent the closing stretch attacking Hochul's record on taxes and energy costs, including utility rates, cashless bail and sanctuary policies, and tried to link the more moderate Hochul to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Both candidates campaigned on Sunday, the last day of early voting, with Blakeman stopping in Northport on Long Island.

Down the ballot

The same Siena poll showed Attorney General Letitia James ahead of Republican challenger Saritha Komatireddy by 54% to 39%. New York voters go to the polls on Tuesday, November 3, to decide the governor's race and other offices including attorney general.

(File photo: New York Governor Kathy Hochul)