NY Governor 2026: Hochul Job Approval 53%; Leads Stefanik 45-31%

"A new Siena Poll shows that Governor Kathy Hochul's (D) approval ratings have slightly improved, but a potential 2026 gubernatorial race against US Representative Elise Stefanik (R-North Country) has tightened. Hochul has a 14-point lead over Stefanik, a drop from a 23-point spread in June," reported Albany News 10.

“The governor can trumpet her best job approval rating since March 2023,” said Siena pollster Steve Greenberg. Hochul's poll numbers have never been strong, though.

Kathy Hochul (D):

• Job approval? 53% approve / 42% disapprove (50-47 in June)
• Personal rating? 42% favorable / 44% unfavorable
• Re-elect or hire someone new? 35% re-elect, 53% someone else

Elise Stefanik (R):

• Personal rating? 27% favorable / 32% unfavorable (41% don’t know)
• Right job experience? 29% yes / 
• Electing Stefanik good or bad for NY? 49% bad / 37% good