Hochul’s Lead Shrinks as Blakeman Gains Ground in Siena Poll

A Siena College poll (Aug. 3–6, 811 likely voters, margin of error ±4.6) shows Gov. Kathy Hochul’s lead over Bruce Blakeman narrowing to 49-39% with under three months until Election Day; independent voters favor Blakeman by five points (45-40), and the DSA has a negative statewide favorability rating. Hochul leads in New York City (64-19%) but trails Blakeman in the downstate suburbs and is roughly even upstate. Voters rate Hochul better on affordability and housing, while Blakeman has tied to Trump for endorsement. The race remains highly partisan, with Democrats solid with Hochul and Republicans with Blakeman.