Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bruce Blakeman spent Thursday on the campaign trail in New York City, stopping in Harlem and the South Bronx to court voters ahead of the November election. The former Nassau County executive used the visits to underscore his plan to cut taxes and reduce utility costs, themes that resonate with families struggling with high living expenses.
Harlem Stop Emphasizes Tax Relief
In Harlem, Blakeman appeared beside former NBA All-Star Jayson Williams. Together they highlighted the candidate’s pledge to lower state taxes and bring down utility rates, a promise aimed at making home ownership more affordable for working families. “We need to get money back into the pockets of New Yorkers,” Blakeman told the crowd, noting that his tax‑cut proposal would help parents keep more of their hard‑earned income.
South Bronx Event Focuses on Faith and Immigration
The candidate’s next stop was in the South Bronx, where he joined Pentecostal minister and former state Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. before a gathering of conservative Latino voters. Blakeman invited attendees to visit him at the Governor’s Mansion if elected, saying, “Mi casa es su casa!” He also reiterated his support for guest worker permits for illegal immigrants, arguing that such programs can fill labor gaps while protecting American jobs.
Alignment with President Trump
Blakeman’s campaign continues to embrace President Donald Trump, despite polling that shows the president remains unpopular in New York State and especially in New York City. When asked whether he regretted the alignment, Blakeman responded, “Look, there are areas where I agree with the president. There are areas where I disagree with the president,” signaling a selective endorsement of Trump’s policies that he believes benefit New Yorkers.
Hochul’s Campaign Activities
Governor Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, spent Thursday supporting Democratic candidates rather than focusing on her own re‑election. She participated in a phone‑banking session in Peekskill to aid Democratic candidate Cait Conley in New York’s 17th Congressional District. Hochul emphasized her commitment to preventing “Trump‑style leadership” in Albany, positioning herself as a firewall against the policies championed by Blakeman.
Polling Snapshot
Recent major polls indicate that Governor Hochul holds a double‑digit lead over Blakeman as the campaign enters its final stretch. While the numbers show a comfortable margin for the incumbent, the race remains active with both candidates continuing to rally supporters across the state.
What’s at Stake
Blakeman’s platform centers on tax relief, lower utility rates, and a more permissive stance on guest worker permits for illegal immigrants—issues he argues will strengthen families and promote economic growth. Hochul, on the other hand, is positioning herself as a defender of New York’s progressive policies while warning voters against a return to the Trump‑style approach that she says would undermine the state’s safety and affordability.
Both campaigns are intensifying their outreach as the election draws near, with Blakeman seeking to expand his appeal in traditionally Democratic boroughs and Hochul reinforcing her lead by supporting down‑ballot Democrats.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
