Gov. Kathy Hochul’s political standing is collapsing as voters rebel against her record on crime, taxes, and affordability—leaving her re-election prospects in shambles, according to a new statewide survey.
Hochul’s decision to “bend the knee to Commie Mamdani”—a reference to her endorsement of socialist Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor—has shattered what little moderate support she had left, according to Team Elise, the operation aiming to unseat the Democrat.
The GrayHouse poll, conducted for House GOP Chairwoman Elise Stefanik’s E-PAC, shows Hochul trailing or statistically tied with the Republican leader, who is widely seen as a likely contender for governor in 2026. The result is striking in a state long dominated by Democrats. Once voters learn more about both candidates’ records, Stefanik pulls ahead 46.4% to 45.9%, underscoring broad frustration with Hochul’s leadership.
“The data is clear,” Stefanik said. “Kathy Hochul, the worst governor in America, has destroyed New York with unaffordable taxes, rampant crime, and open-border policies that put illegals and criminals ahead of law-abiding citizens.”
Hochul’s problems run deep. Only 15% of voters say they will definitely re-elect her, while 59% say it’s time for someone new. Her job approval has sunk to 39%, with 56% disapproving—figures that mirror the state’s broader sense of economic decline under her watch.
Among independents, Hochul is viewed unfavorably by 64%, with nearly half saying “very unfavorable.” Even within her own party, she’s faltering: just 43% of Democrats back her in a hypothetical primary against her lieutenant governor.
New Yorkers are now facing record taxes and energy prices, rising housing costs, and persistent crime—all under Hochul’s single-party rule. Once seen as a safe incumbent, the governor now faces open revolt from voters desperate for change—and a growing threat from Stefanik, who is expected to announce her candidacy after the November elections.