Why Hochul's 2026 reelection just got more complicated

The race for governor is already stealing the political spotlight in New York with competitive primaries looming for both the Democratic and Republican parties.

Running for reelection, Gov. Kathy Hochul is facing a primary challenge from Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado. Republicans will also have a primary on their hands with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announcing this week that he's entering the governor's race, setting up a GOP primary challenge against Rep. Elise Stefanik, who represents an upstate district in Congress.

So, as we look ahead to 2026, what should we expect?

NY1 statehouse reporter Bernadette Hogan and Politico Albany Bureau Chief Nick Reisman joined NY1's Errol Louis to break down the current landscape of New York state politics, revisiting Hochul's 2022 victory, her standing heading into the next election and the potential challenges she faces. The conversation also explored the dynamics shaping Hochul's relationship with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, along with the legislative pressures and political crosscurrents that could complicate her path to reelection.