Poll Shows Majority of New Yorkers Want New Governor

A recent Siena College poll reveals that only 33% of New Yorkers would vote to re-elect Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul in 2026, while 57% prefer a different candidate. Among Democrats, only 48% support her re-election, with 40% seeking an alternative, while 85% of Republicans and 65% of independents also favor another candidate. Hochul's favorability rating stands at 39%, and her job approval is slightly improved at 46%, though still negative. Voters are particularly concerned about the cost of living, with 43% identifying it as Albany's top priority, followed by affordable housing and the influx of migrants. Additionally, 51% of voters oppose Hochul’s new congestion pricing plan, which is set to take effect next month. These polling numbers indicate a challenging road ahead for Hochul as she prepares for her re-election campaign.