Kathy Hochul reelected as New York governor, CBS News projects
Kathy Hochul has been reelected as governor of New York during the 2026 midterms, defeating Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, CBS News projected Tuesday night.
A Democrat has occupied the Executive Mansion in Albany for nearly two decades. Hochul, 68, is the first woman to hold the office, serving as governor since she replaced Andrew Cuomo, who resigned due to a sexual harassment scandal, in 2021. Four years ago, she was reelected to her first full term, defeating then-Rep. Lee Zeldin of Long Island by a little more than six points.
Blakeman, the 71-year-old Nassau County executive, faced an uphill climb in his quest to become the first Republican governor of New York since George Pataki's third term ended in 2006. Blakeman trailed Hochul throughout the race, mostly by double digits.
Both candidates' campaigns centered around affordability.
In the days leading up to the election, Hochul emphasized that she is trying to make parenthood more affordable with universal childcare and tax breaks. She also used her campaign to tout her record, which includes gun safety legislation and investments in subway safety, mental health care, housing and clean energy initiatives.
Blakeman attacked Hochul over affordability issues, promising to cut taxes and utility bills. His other focuses included support of an immigration crackdown and as an advocate of law enforcement.
Blakeman also bashed Hochul's alliance with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, saying her working relationship with the democratic socialist would lead to her undoing.
Meanwhile, Hochul tied Blakeman to President Trump, whose approval ratings have declined throughout his second term.
Hochul spent time and money during the campaign to help Democrats go to Washington because she wants to stop a president who has enacted tariffs that are said to be hurting communities near the Canadian border, and thwarted her wind power initiative and a host of other pet projects.
"We can do better for a nation if the Democrats are in control of the House and the Senate," Hochul said earlier Tuesday.
This is a developing story. Check back soon for more information.
