Conservative shift gains momentum in traditionally liberal state, backed by polling indicating resident dissatisfaction
Shift to the Right: New York's Surprising Political Drama
New York, traditionally a stronghold of the Democratic Party, is witnessing an unexpected shift to the right, according to a latest poll. This change, not seen in over three decades, could potentially pave the way for Republicans to challenge the unpopular Democratic Governor, Kathy Hochul, who is running for reelection in 2026.
GrayHouse's recent poll reveals that just 36% of New Yorkers approve of Kathy Hochul's performance, while a significant 55% disapprove. This dramatic dip in approval ratings, particularly in a state primarily composed of Democrats, has left political operatives stunned. Even President Trump, known for his polarizing persona, boasts a higher approval rating than Hochul in New York, with 43% approving and 56% disapproving.
The poll, which surveyed 826 registered voters between April 22 and 28, indicates a strong rightward realignment in the state. High crime rates, immigration concerns, and corruption are among the key issues fueling voter dissatisfaction with the current Democratic leadership.
The Republican Party has been gaining ground with support from Hispanic, Black, Asian-American voters, suburbanites, and working-class voters, who are attracted to the party's promises of tougher enforcement of crime and immigration, and addressing the cost of living and inflation.
In the 2024 election, Trump defied expectations by losing to Kamala Harris by a mere 13 points, an improvement of 11 points from his 24-point loss in the 2016 election. This significant shift in voter preferences is a testament to the growing influence of the right in New York.
The stark political landscape change became even more evident in the 2022 elections, where Republicans flipped all four congressional seats away from Democrats, contributing significantly to House Republicans' majority in Washington, D.C.
In the closely contested 2022 gubernatorial race, Republican candidate Lee Zeldin came within a whisker of defeating Hochul, with the final tally standing at 47% to 53%. With weakening approval ratings, the stage seems set for another showdown between Hochul and the Republicans.
The poll also hints at a promising future for Republican star Elise Stefanik, should she decide to run for governor. The survey shows that 46% of voters would vote for Hochul, while Stefanik would earn 40% of the vote, with 14% undecided. Sandwiched between overwhelming support from Republicans, 44% of primary voters announced their support for a potential run by Stefanik, while only 7% favored other candidates.
In an interview with a media outlet, Stefanik, who was once considered for an ambassador role by Trump, indicated her strong consideration for a run for governor. The Congresswoman believes that New York is moving towards the Republican direction, a result of single-party rule led by Hochul. She expressed her intent to fight for New Yorkers and gather support from Independents and Democrats, in addition to Republicans.
Trump's performance in the state, his rallies, and events have further fueled this Republican surge, according to Stefanik. As the 2026 gubernatorial election nears, the political landscape of New York seems poised for an intriguing and dramatic shift. Stay tuned for more updates!
[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/22/nyregion/new-york-city-mayoral-race-candidates.html[2] https://www.politico.com/states/new-york/albany/story/2025/04/new-york-elections-push-back-on-trump-2389448[3] https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/04/29/new-york-elections-move-away-from-trump/[4] https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/08/nyregion/elections-new-york-congress.html[5] https://www.politico.com/news/2025/04/29/new-york-city-mayoral-race-trump-draw-35000-supporters-00042840
- The indications of a rightward shift in New York's politics are evident in the latest GrayHouse poll, where only 36% of voters approve of Governor Kathy Hochul's performance, a significant drop compared to President Trump's 43% approval rating in the same state.
- The disapproval of Hochul's policy and legislation, coupled with concerns over crime and justice, war-and-conflicts, and general news, have left many voters dissatisfied.
- Voters from diverse demographic groups, including Hispanic, Black, Asian-American voters, suburbanites, and working-class voters, have been voting for the Republican Party, due to their promises of tougher crime and immigration enforcement, addressing cost of living, and inflation.
- In the political landscape of New York, Republican star Elise Stefanik, who expressed her intent to fight for New Yorkers and gather support from independents and even Democrats, could be a strong contender if she decides to run for governor, according to the poll.
- The ongoing political drama in New York, fueled by President Trump's performance, rallies, and events, has led many to question the future of Democratic politics in the state, particularly ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.
