Hochul's Re-election Bid Bolstered by Super PAC Spending Amid Concerns Over 'Radical' Wing
As Kathy Hochul aims for a decisive victory, independent expenditure committees are injecting significant funds to counter potential challenges from within her party and solidify her mandate.
Super PACs supporting New York Governor Kathy Hochul's re-election campaign are increasing their spending, aiming to secure a substantial win that could help distance her from the more progressive elements of the Democratic Party. Hochul already possesses a considerable financial advantage, with $33 million in her campaign account and the state Democratic Party's account combined.
Sources indicate a desire to create a wider margin of victory over Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman and to mitigate any negative impact on down-ballot candidates that might arise from a lack of voter enthusiasm. "People are angry and they have a right to be. And I think the governor knows that and the government knows she has to respond to that," said Jay Martin, who oversees The Leadership for New York Super PAC. "We believe that the governor needs support to make sure she has a mandate to push back against the more radical elements in the party."
New York State maintains a significant voter registration advantage for Democrats, with 6 million registered Democrats compared to 3.4 million unaffiliated voters and 2.8 million Republicans, according to Board of Elections figures. No Republican has won a statewide race in New York since 2022.
Despite this advantage, Martin stated that Hochul's supporters are not taking the election for granted, citing a challenging economic conditions that create a "toxic environment" for incumbents. The Leadership for New York Super PAC received a $3 million donation from the New York Apartment Association. This funding is being used for a 30-second advertisement set to air during the Buffalo Bills-New England Patriots game, which labels Blakeman as "President Trump’s biggest cheerleader."
Hochul recently reported raising $8.5 million during the summer, contributing to her total war chest of $33 million with weeks remaining until Election Day on November 3. Blakeman's campaign is expected to release its latest fundraising figures soon.
The increased Super PAC activity comes as Hochul seeks a more decisive victory than her six-percentage-point win over Republican Lee Zeldin in 2022, a margin considered close for the traditionally Democratic-leaning state. Hochul's performance in suburban areas was weaker, and critics suggested that her position at the top of the ticket may have negatively impacted local races and contributed to Democratic losses in key House districts.
Another Super PAC, Fair and Affordable New York, funded by Uber Technologies, is reportedly spending $3 million to promote Hochul. This spending aligns with recent legislative actions, such as the governor's push for a law to control auto insurance costs, a priority for the ride-sharing company.
Separately, the environmental advocacy PAC Evergreen New York has spent $270,000 in the past week targeting Blakeman with negative advertisements. On the opposing side, a pro-Blakeman group called Strong and Safe New York has raised $5 million and is actively campaigning for the challenger while criticizing Hochul. This group's funding includes contributions from Knicks owner James Dolan and a $1 million donation from retired casino magnate Steve Wynn.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards expressed confidence in Hochul's victory, citing her support for Queens and Blakeman's ties to former President Trump. "Governor Hochul is going to run up the score in New York City. There’s been no better governor for Queens," Richards said. "Blakeman’s association with President Trump is going to hurt him."