Image Source: FOX 5 New York
Bruce A. Blakeman is trailing Gov. Kathy Hochul by double digits in the final polling before New York voters decide the stateâs next governor on Election Day 2026.
Hochul, a Democrat seeking another four-year term, has maintained a significant advantage over Blakeman, the Republican challenger and Nassau County executive. Three major polls released in the final weeks of the campaign all showed Hochul leading statewide among likely voters.
Bruce A. Blakeman Faces a Critical Final Test
Polls opened across New York at 6 a.m. Tuesday and are scheduled to close at 9 p.m. Voters are choosing whether to keep Hochul in office or hand control of the governorâs mansion to Blakeman.
The latest surveys suggest Hochul enters Election Day with a clear lead, although one poll indicated the race may have tightened compared with earlier findings. The campaign has focused heavily on household costs, economic conditions, immigration, public safety and the overall direction of New York State.
Final Polls Show Hochul With a Strong Edge
- Siena College: Hochul led Blakeman 54% to 40% among likely voters.
- Marist: Hochul held a 53% to 42% advantage, with 4% undecided.
- Quinnipiac: Hochul was ahead by 14 points, though her lead was smaller than in the September survey.
The Siena poll, conducted among 807 likely New York voters from October 19 through October 22, showed Hochul improving from a 50% share in the organizationâs September poll. The survey also found that a majority of respondents viewed the governor favorably.
The Marist poll surveyed 1,448 registered New York voters between October 22 and October 25. While it showed Hochul leading in the head-to-head matchup, both candidates received relatively low favorability ratings. Forty-one percent viewed Hochul favorably, compared with 36% for Blakeman.
What Is Driving New York Voters?
The economy and cost of living rank among the most important issues for voters in the race. According to the Quinnipiac findings, Hochul had the support of more than 70% of likely voters who identified those issues as their top concerns.
Immigration presented a different political picture. More than 70% of voters who ranked immigration as their most important issue said they preferred Blakeman, giving the Republican campaign a clear advantage among that group.
The polling also revealed challenges for both candidates. Nearly one in five Democrats expressed an unfavorable view of Hochul. At the same time, roughly the same share of voters either had an unfavorable opinion of Blakeman or said they were unfamiliar with him or uncertain about their view of him.
Why the Race Still Matters
Despite Hochulâs lead, the outcome could influence New Yorkâs political direction and shape the broader national conversation during the 2026 midterm elections. A victory for Hochul would give Democrats another term in Albany, while a Blakeman win would mark a major Republican breakthrough in a traditionally Democratic state.
For Blakeman, the final hours of voting represent an urgent opportunity to turn strong support among immigration-focused voters into a statewide coalition. He must also motivate Republican voters and persuade undecided residents who remain concerned about the economy and affordability.
Hochulâs campaign, meanwhile, is relying on her polling advantage and support among voters focused on economic issues. Her challenge is to maintain enthusiasm among Democrats while limiting defections among voters who remain dissatisfied with her administration.
What Happens After Polls Close?
Election results will be reported throughout the evening as counties count ballots. Early results may not provide a complete picture because turnout patterns, absentee ballots and vote-counting procedures can affect when totals are released.
FOX 5 New York said its Election Night coverage would begin at 4 p.m., with live updates and results as they become available. The final outcome will depend on turnout across New Yorkâs urban, suburban and upstate regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bruce A. Blakeman?
Bruce A. Blakeman is the Republican challenger in New Yorkâs 2026 governorâs race. He serves as Nassau County executive and is campaigning against Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul.
What do the final polls show?
The final Siena, Marist and Quinnipiac polls all showed Hochul leading Blakeman. Her advantage ranged from 11 to 14 points among likely or registered voters, depending on the survey.
What time do New York polls close?
Polling locations across New York are scheduled to remain open from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Election Day.
What issues are most important to voters?
The cost of living, the economy and immigration ranked among the leading issues in the governorâs race. Hochul performed strongly among voters focused on affordability, while Blakeman led among those prioritizing immigration.
