A new advertising campaign launched by the super PAC Strong and Safe New York is targeting New York Governor Kathy Hochul, criticizing her record and accusing her of deflecting blame onto President Donald Trump.
The ads, funded by a $1 million media buy from the pro-Bruce Blakeman group, which is bankrolled by Knicks owner James Dolan, contend that Hochul is responsible for increased energy bills, housing costs for migrants, and tax hikes.
"Kathy Hochul blames President Trump for everything," a narrator states in one of the 30-second spots. "But the president didn’t raise our energy bill 48 times — Hochul did." The ad also claims Hochul is responsible for placing migrants in hotels and increasing taxes.
"We don’t need a governor who will shift the blame. We need a governor who will lead. Bruce Blakeman for New York," the ad concludes, urging voters to support the Republican candidate.
The Strong and Safe New York campaign is an apparent counter to a multi-million dollar offensive by the Hochul campaign, which has linked Blakeman to Trump, labeling him "100% MAGA" and claiming he would prioritize Trump over New Yorkers.
Despite the Hochul campaign and the state Democratic Party holding a significant financial advantage, with approximately $40 million to spend compared to Blakeman's resources, the Dolan-backed group aims to influence the race leading up to the November election.
A recent Siena University poll indicated a tightening gubernatorial race, with Hochul holding a 49% to 39% lead over Blakeman among likely voters. The same poll found that President Trump has a 60% job disapproval rating in New York.