New York governor 2026: Hochul vs Blakeman with two weeks to go
Kathy Hochul faces Bruce Blakeman on 3 November. The latest Marist poll, early-voting dates from 24 October, and how governor markets settle.
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Short answer
New York's governor race on 3 November is Democrat Kathy Hochul, the incumbent, against Republican Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County executive. A Marist poll of 1,361 registered voters (1 to 4 October) had Hochul at 53% and Blakeman at 42%. Election markets on Kalshi and Polymarket US let New Yorkers trade the winner. Early voting runs from 24 October to 1 November.
Where the race stands
- Hochul is seeking a second full term. She won in 2022 by about 6 points over Lee Zeldin.
- Hochul's running mate is Adrienne Adams; Blakeman's is Todd Hood.
- The two met in one debate, on 13 October.
- Hochul has led every public poll, by margins from single digits to 19 points, according to New York Focus (14 October).
- Money: Hochul's campaign had about $19 million banked through September; Blakeman had about $178,000.
A poll is a snapshot, not a forecast. Turnout and late deciders can still move the race.
What the markets cover
- Winner of the governor's race: a yes/no contract on each candidate, or on the winning party.
- Margin markets, where an app lists them.
Prices move every day, so we don't type them here. Check the live price in each app before you trade.
Trade this on Kalshi
Kalshi lists markets on New York's governor race. New users: Trade $25 and Get $25 with code NYPREDICTS.
See Kalshi markets (opens in a new tab)
Certain limitations apply. The offer is available to new users only, subject to the terms and conditions at kalshi.com/tc/500. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information.
Key dates for New York voters
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 24 October to 1 November | Early voting. Hours are set by each county, and your early-voting site may differ from your Election Day poll site |
| 3 November | Election Day: polls open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
Check your site and hours with your county Board of Elections (in the city, NYC Votes (opens in a new tab)).
Where New Yorkers can trade the race
- Kalshi (opens in a new tab): a CFTC-regulated exchange with US election markets.
- Polymarket US (opens in a new tab): election markets in US dollars.
These apps are available to eligible New York residents. The platforms' minimum age is 18; we recommend 21+. Trading involves risk; you can lose what you put in.
How a governor contract settles
A "Yes" contract on the winner pays $1 once the market's settlement source confirms the result; the other side pays $0. Read each market's rules: New York counts some absentee and early mail ballots after election night, and some markets wait for certification.
Sources
- Marist Poll: Midterm elections in New York, October 2026 (7 Oct 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- New York Focus: What to know about the New York governor's race (14 Oct 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- New York State Board of Elections: certification for the 3 November 2026 general election (opens in a new tab)
- The Ithacan: 2026 candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of New York (14 Oct 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- NYC Votes: in-person early voting (opens in a new tab)
Frequently asked questions
Who is running for New York governor in 2026?
Democrat Kathy Hochul, the incumbent, and Republican Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County executive. Smaller-party and independent candidates are also on some ballots.
When does early voting start in New York?
Saturday, 24 October 2026. It runs to Sunday, 1 November.
Can I trade the New York governor race from New York?
Yes, on CFTC-regulated apps such as Kalshi and Polymarket US, which accept eligible New York residents.
21+ · T&Cs apply · Terms
New users only. T&Cs apply. ProphetX's minimum age is 18 (or the local age of majority if higher); we recommend 21+. Not available in Nevada. Trading involves risk.
