Hochul Leads Democratic Field in First Major Poll of N.Y. Governor’s Race
The New York Times
A Marist College poll found that voters favored Gov. Kathy Hochul over potential primary rivals, including the state attorney general, Letitia James.
When Kathy Hochul unexpectedly became governor of New York two months ago, she was immediately faced with two challenges: Leading a state traversing a pandemic while simultaneously building a statewide campaign operation to run for a full term next year.
Right away, Ms. Hochul began courting donors and hiring campaign staff, as she faced the prospect of potentially running against Letitia James, the state attorney general, whose office led the sexual harassment investigation that ultimately led to the demise of former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, and to Ms. Hochul’s ascension.
Ms. Hochul’s efforts appear to be paying off: A Marist College poll released on Tuesday found that Ms. Hochul would beat Ms. James and Jumaane Williams, the New York City public advocate, if next year’s Democratic primary for governor were held today.
