Hochul Leads NY Poll Despite Voter Dissatisfaction

Governor Kathy Hochul holds a commanding lead of at least 20 points over potential Republican challengers, including Rep. Elise Stefanik, Rep. Mike Lawler, and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, according to a Siena College poll. Despite this advantage, Hochul does not surpass 51% support in any matchup, with 27-31% of voters undecided. Only 37% of voters say they would re-elect Hochul, while 55% prefer 'someone else,' indicating ongoing dissatisfaction. Hochul also maintains a wide margin in a potential Democratic primary against Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado and Rep. Ritchie Torres, who both have low name recognition. The poll finds a majority of New Yorkers believe the state is headed in the wrong direction, and Hochul's favorability is underwater at 42%-47%. Strong partisan divides and significant voter uncertainty persist less than 18 months before the 2026 election.