Bruce Blakeman is campaigning to become the first Republican governor of New York in 20 years, challenging Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul. At the New York State Fair in Syracuse, Bruce Blakeman focused on energy costs and the economy, blaming Hochul for rising utility bills. He appeared with Flo Rida at a Long Island concert and criticized Hochul for wearing a hijab at an Islamic center, releasing an A.I.-generated ad showing her hiding behind a head covering.

Campaigning in Howard Beach, Queens, Kathy Hochul was attacked for $200 utility rebates, which Blakeman called an "election-year gimmick." Store co-owner Angelo Pellegrino expressed support for Blakeman's economic message. Despite being outnumbered by Democrats more than two to one, Blakeman hopes to capitalize on Hochul's 49% unfavorable rating.

Though Trump remains unpopular in New York with 60% viewing him unfavorably, Blakeman, a longtime Trump ally, carefully avoids explicit endorsements while aligning with Trump's agenda on crime and immigration. His campaign has outspent Hochul's on ads, but Hochul maintains a significant fundraising advantage ahead of the 2026 midterm election.