Hochul Leads Blakeman by 11 Points, But GOP Challenger Gains Among Independents
A new Marist poll indicates Governor Kathy Hochul holds a double-digit lead, though Republican Bruce Blakeman is narrowing the gap with independent voters.
Gov. Kathy Hochul maintains an 11-point lead over her Republican challenger, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, in the race for New York governor, according to a new Marist poll. However, the survey indicates Hochul is losing ground with independent voters, a key demographic.
The poll of 1,361 registered voters across New York found Hochul with 53% support compared to Blakeman's 42%. Despite this lead, Blakeman secured 49% of the independent vote, while Hochul received 42%. The candidates are tied in the state's suburbs, with both garnering 48% support.
Hochul holds a significant advantage in New York City, leading Blakeman 69% to 24%. This polling outcome closely resembles a Marist poll from October 2022, which showed Hochul with a 10-point lead over then-Republican candidate Lee Zeldin. Hochul ultimately defeated Zeldin by 6 percentage points.
Blakeman criticized the Marist poll, calling it "phony" and biased against Republicans. He expressed confidence in achieving "record turnout" in New York City. Hochul, when asked about the poll, stated that a double-digit lead indicates a strong position and dismissed concerns.
Previous polls have shown varying margins. A Siena University poll last month had Hochul with a 9% lead, while a Quinnipiac University poll released the same day showed Hochul ahead by 19%. The Marist poll also indicated that national Democrats hold a 55% to 42% advantage over Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. The survey was conducted between October 1 and October 4, with a margin of error of 3.6%.