New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is projected to win a second full term, the Associated Press reported, keeping Democrats in the governor’s office as affordability and tax policy remain key issues in state politics.
Her Republican opponent, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, criticized her handling of rising costs. Bloomberg reported that Hochul campaigned on easing household expenses, widening access to child care and avoiding an increase in income taxes.
President Donald Trump endorsed Blakeman and appeared at campaign events for him, the AP reported. Bloomberg reported that Hochul made Blakeman’s connection to Trump a campaign issue and pledged to keep standing up to the president, particularly on immigration.
Hochul took office in August 2021 after former Gov. Andrew Cuomo resigned. With the ticket projected to prevail, former New York City Council speaker Adrienne Adams is expected to become New York’s first Black woman lieutenant governor when the new term begins in January, Bloomberg reported.
Bloomberg also reported that state lawmakers supported by the Democratic Socialists of America are expected to seek higher taxes on wealthy residents. The pressure is expected as Hochul begins her second term.
