The political landscape in New York is shifting, with a new poll revealing a significant change in the favorability of both Governor Kathy Hochul and former President Donald Trump. While New York has traditionally been a Democratic stronghold, recent findings suggest a potential shift in the state’s political leanings, particularly in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
According to a Siena College poll released on Thursday, Governor Hochul’s favorability rating has plummeted to a record low. Only 34% of New York voters view her favorably, compared to a staggering 54% who view her unfavorably. This decline comes after a drop in her favorability rating from last month, where she was viewed favorably by 39% of voters.
Simultaneously, former President Trump’s popularity in the state has seen a remarkable increase. The poll found that 39% of likely New York voters view Trump favorably, with 57% viewing him poorly. This indicates a slight improvement in his favorability compared to Governor Hochul, who has a lower net favorability rating in the state than Trump.
Siena College pollster Steven Greenberg commented on these findings, stating that Hochul’s favorability rating is “worse than Trump’s, 18 points underwater.” He further noted that while Hochul’s favorability has never been outstanding, it has reached an all-time low.
Trump, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, has been actively campaigning in New York, rallying support at events across the state. During a rally in Long Island, he expressed confidence in winning the state, stating, “We are going to win New York. That’s the first time in many, many years that a Republican can honestly say it, and we’re going to do it.” This sentiment is significant, as a Republican presidential candidate has not won New York since Ronald Reagan in 1984.
Trump’s campaign strategy centers around emphasizing the challenges faced by New Yorkers, such as crime, inflation, and illegal immigration. He appeals to voters by claiming he can provide solutions to these issues and “fix up our country.” This message has seemingly resonated with some New Yorkers, as his popularity in the state has seen a noticeable rise.
Despite Trump’s surge in popularity, the Siena poll found that Vice President Kamala Harris still holds a lead over him in New York. However, the lead is not as significant as it has been in previous presidential elections. Greenberg noted that while New York remains a solidly blue state, it may not be as deeply blue as it has been in recent cycles.
The upcoming 2024 presidential election in New York promises to be a close race, with Trump’s recent gains in popularity and Hochul’s plummeting approval ratings. The state’s political landscape is in flux, and the outcome of the election remains uncertain.
