Hochul and Blakeman Target Queens as Early Voting Closes

New York voters cast their ballots on the final day of early voting, a critical window that sets the tone for the upcoming general election. The contest between incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman has intensified in the days leading up to Election Day on Nov. 3.

Both candidates concentrated their efforts in Queens, a borough with a large and diverse electorate that has historically influenced statewide races. Hochul campaigned in Jamaica, focusing on turnout and down-ballot races. Blakeman held a rally in Middle Village, where he pitched specific economic changes to draw supporters.

Blakeman outlined a plan to eliminate state income taxes on the first $100,000 of income for joint filers. He also pledged to reduce utility costs by half. The Nassau County executive accused the governor of increasing tax burdens on working families.

Hochul responded by contrasting her record with the challenger’s approach. She compared Blakeman to President Donald Trump and pointed to Albany’s actions to counteract federal funding cuts. The Democrat emphasized that voter energy was high, noting that the race extended beyond the top of the ticket to other key positions.

"People are so energized to get out and vote. And what I need is, this is all about not just the top of the ticket, but everybody down ballot. And we have such important races on the line right now," Hochul said.

Blakeman disputed recent polling data that showed Hochul holding a double-digit lead. He described the race as closely contested and urged his base to vote despite the survey results. "We're right there, we are neck and neck, we can win this thing if people get out to vote. Remember, if good people don't vote, you get bad laws, and that's what we've got in this state," Blakeman said.

After their events in Queens, the candidates continued their final push before the general election. Hochul planned to campaign at a diner on Manhattan's Upper West Side, while Blakeman attended a rally at a golf club in Northport, Suffolk County.