Hochul rolls out costly ad tying Blakeman to Trump as race tightens

Governor Kathy Hochul launched a multi-million-dollar advertising push that includes a 30-second spot filmed in a Westchester pizza shop, where she highlights her modest beginnings and asserts that her administration cut middle-class taxes, provided free school meals and restrained utility companies. The commercial also warns that Bruce Blakeman, the Republican candidate endorsed by Donald Trump, would prioritize the president over New Yorkers.

The move follows a Siena University poll indicating the gubernatorial contest has narrowed, with Hochul at 49% and Blakeman at 39% among likely voters. Blakeman’s campaign pollster John McLaughlin mocked the strategy, saying negative ads signal Hochul is behind in the race and that many voters now know her unfavorably. Blakeman responded by labeling the ads “deep-dish deception” and pledged to halt tax hikes, citing his record in Nassau County. The Democratic Party’s coordinated weekend of action features more than 150 organizing events, while the pro-Blakeman “Strong and Safe New York” Super PAC has allocated over $1 million for a digital ad titled “Get Outta Town” that claims Hochul’s policies are driving residents away.