Hakikul Islam Khokan,Md.Nasir, Bapsnews:

Tuesday, October 30, 2026 — With just days remaining before New York’s gubernatorial election, Democratic incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul is maintaining a significant lead over her Republican challenger, Bruce Blakeman, according to the latest public opinion polls.News by Bapsnews & Ibnnews.A Siena Research Institute poll released on October 28 found Hochul leading Blakeman by 14 percentage points among likely voters, with 54% support compared with Blakeman’s 40%. The latest results represent an increase in Hochul’s lead from September, when she received 50% support compared with Blakeman’s 41%. The Siena poll surveyed 807 likely voters across New York State between October 19 and October 22, with a margin of error of ±4.1 percentage points. A separate Marist Poll, also released on October 28, showed Hochul leading by 11 percentage points. She received 53% support, compared with 42% for Blakeman. Approximately 4% of voters remained undecided. Voters’ Expectations About the Election According to the Siena poll, 68% of voters believe Hochul will win reelection, while 23% expect Blakeman to emerge victorious. Notably, 40% of Republican voters also believe Hochul will win. Key Issues in the Campaign The major issues shaping the gubernatorial race include the rising cost of living, electricity and energy prices, taxes, public safety, crime prevention and immigration policy. Blakeman has criticized the Hochul administration’s tax and energy policies, while Hochul is highlighting her administration’s record and Democratic policy priorities as she seeks another term. Independent Voters: A Different Picture Despite Hochul’s overall lead, polling among independent voters presents a more complicated picture. The Siena poll showed Hochul leading among independents by 51% to 40%. However, the Marist poll found Blakeman ahead among independent voters, 49% to 39%. Blakeman’s campaign has pointed to this difference as evidence that the race remains competitive. New York’s gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. Although the latest major polls show Hochul ahead statewide, the final outcome will be determined by voters on Election Day. Sources: Siena Research Institute and Marist Poll, October 28, 2026.