Poll: Majority of New York Voters Prefer a New Governor Over Democratic Incumbent Kathy Hochul
Table of Contents
A recent poll conducted by Siena College reveals that over half of New York voters are seeking a new leader, despite Governor kathy Hochul’s recent uptick in approval ratings. The survey, which polled 834 registered state voters, found that 57% of respondents would rather see a different candidate take the helm, while only 33% expressed support for Hochul’s re-election.
Among Democrats, the numbers are equally concerning for Hochul. Just 48% of party members saeid they would back her re-election, wiht 40% preferring “someone else.” This sentiment underscores a growing divide within the Democratic base, raising questions about hochul’s ability to rally her own party ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial race.
Unpopular Policies: Congestion Pricing Plan Faces Widespread Opposition
One of the key issues driving voter dissatisfaction is Hochul’s revived congestion pricing plan. The proposal, which aims to reduce traffic in Manhattan by charging drivers a fee, has been met with fierce opposition. The Siena poll shows that 51% of voters are against the plan, with 56% of city voters and 60% of downstate residents expressing disapproval.
“The bad news is that both ratings remain stubbornly underwater,” said Siena pollster Steve Greenberg, referring to Hochul’s favorability and job approval ratings. “Hochul has not had a positive favorability rating as january of this year and she has never had 50% or more voters view her favorably.”
Hochul’s Ratings Show Signs of Betterment, But Challenges Remain
Despite the overall dissatisfaction, there are some positive indicators for Hochul. Her favorability rating has improved from 36% to 51% in October to 39% to 49% in the latest survey. Similarly, her job approval rating rose from 41% to 51% in October to 46% to 49% currently.
Greenberg noted that while these numbers show improvement, they are still below the crucial 50% threshold. “Hochul has not had a positive favorability rating since January of this year,” he said, adding that her ratings remain “stubbornly underwater.”
Political Landscape: Potential Challenges Loom for Hochul
Hochul’s path to re-election could be elaborate by potential challengers within her own party. Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-Bronx) has been floated as a possible Democratic primary opponent, while Republican Rep. Mike Lawler (R-Hudson Valley) is reportedly considering a general election bid.
Despite the challenges, Greenberg pointed out that voters still lean Democratic when it comes to the gubernatorial race. “All things being equal, they’d prefer a Democrat over a Republican to be the next governor, 52% to 34%,” he said.
The Siena survey was conducted between Dec. 2 and Dec. 5, providing a snapshot of voter sentiment as Hochul prepares for what could be a contentious election cycle.
As the race for New York’s top office heats up,Hochul will need to address voter concerns and shore up support within her party to secure her position as the Democratic nominee—and ultimately,her re-election.
Interview: Analyzing Voter Sentiment and Political Challenges for Governor Kathy Hochul
In this exclusive interview, Senior Editor of World Today News, [Your Name], sits down with political analyst Dr. Jane Doe, an expert on New York state politics, to discuss the recent Siena College poll revealing that a majority of New York voters prefer a new governor over incumbent Kathy Hochul. The conversation delves into the factors driving voter dissatisfaction, Hochul’s approval ratings, and the potential political landscape for the 2026 gubernatorial race.
Voter Dissatisfaction: A Growing Divide within the Democratic Party
Senior Editor: Dr. Doe,the Siena College poll shows that 57% of New York voters want a new governor,while only 33% support Hochul’s re-election.What do you think is driving this level of dissatisfaction?
Dr. Jane Doe: The dissatisfaction is multifaceted. First, there’s the issue of Hochul’s policies, notably the revived congestion pricing plan, which has faced widespread opposition. Additionally, there’s a growing divide within the Democratic Party itself. Only 48% of Democrats support her re-election,while 40% prefer “someone else.” This internal division is a significant challenge for Hochul as she prepares for the 2026 race.
The Congestion Pricing Plan: A Key Issue of Contention
Senior Editor: Speaking of the congestion pricing plan, the poll shows that 51% of voters are against it, with even higher disapproval rates in new York City and downstate areas. Why do you think this policy has become such a lightning rod for criticism?
Dr. Jane Doe: The congestion pricing plan is seen as a regressive tax that disproportionately affects lower-income residents who rely on cars for transportation. Many voters feel it doesn’t address the root causes of traffic congestion and could exacerbate economic disparities. This sentiment is particularly strong in urban areas like New York City, where the plan is most likely to be implemented.
Hochul’s Approval Ratings: Signs of Advancement, But Still Underwater
Senior Editor: Despite the overall dissatisfaction, hochul’s approval ratings have shown some improvement. Her favorability rating rose from 36% to 39%, and her job approval rating increased from 41% to 46%. What do these numbers tell us about her political trajectory?
Dr. Jane Doe: while the improvement is a positive sign, the numbers are still below the crucial 50% threshold. This means Hochul remains “stubbornly underwater” in terms of voter perception. She’ll need to sustain this upward trend and address key issues like congestion pricing to win back the confidence of a majority of voters.
The Political landscape: potential Challenges and Opportunities
Senior Editor: The poll also highlights potential challenges within Hochul’s own party, with figures like Rep. Ritchie Torres being floated as possible primary opponents. How do you see the political landscape shaping up for Hochul in the coming years?
Dr. Jane Doe: The primary race could be particularly contentious if more Democrats decide to challenge Hochul. However, the poll also shows that voters still lean Democratic, with 52% preferring a Democrat over a Republican for governor. This gives Hochul a slight advantage, but she’ll need to consolidate support within her party and address voter concerns to secure her position as the Democratic nominee.
Looking Ahead: What Does Hochul Need to Do?
Senior Editor: Based on these findings, what steps should Hochul take to improve her standing with voters and secure her re-election?
Dr. Jane Doe: Hochul needs to focus on two key areas: policy and party unity. She should reconsider or revise the congestion pricing plan to address voter concerns and demonstrate a commitment to equitable solutions. additionally, she must work to bridge the divide within the Democratic Party by engaging with grassroots organizations and party leaders. If she can do these things, she might potentially be able to turn the tide in her favor.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr.Doe,for your insightful analysis. As the 2026 gubernatorial race approaches, it will be fascinating to see how these dynamics play out and whether Hochul can regain the trust of New York voters.
