New York Gov. Kathy Hochul faces a primary challenge from her former ally, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, who aims for transformational leadership amid public rifts since their 2022 election. Delgado called for policies targeting affordable housing and health care in his campaign video. His announcement underscores a significant break after Hochul appointed him, revealing growing dissatisfaction as recent polling shows 57% of New Yorkers oppose her re-election bid. Delgado's challenge comes as he steps into a critical role, amplifying the divide between the two moderate leaders ahead of the 2026 elections.
"Lt. Gov. Delgado does not now and has not ever spoken on behalf of this administration," Hochul spokesperson Anthony Hogrebe said in February.
Delgado's move underscores a sharp break with Hochul, who appointed him to his current role in . The two moderates ran on the same ticket in the 2022 election.
In his campaign video, Delgado emphasized the need for "bold, decisive, transformational leadership" and outlined priorities such as affordable housing and universal health care.
Polling suggests that Hochul could be vulnerable, with an April Marist Poll finding that 57% of New Yorkers opposed her decision to run for reelection.
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