New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent poll numbers have taken a hit, with record-low job approval ratings according to a recent Siena College survey. The poll shows that only 44% of voters approve of the job she is doing as governor, while 50% disapprove. In addition, her favorability rating is also underwater at 38-49%, meaning more people have an unfavorable view of her than a favorable one.
One positive note for Governor Hochul is that a majority of voters from both parties support her decision to pause New York’s congestion pricing program, which would have led to higher toll fares for commuters to New York City. This decision was supported by 45% of voters, while only 23% disapproved, with 16% taking a neutral position.
Despite the support for her decision on congestion pricing, Governor Hochul’s favorability and job approval ratings are at their lowest in nearly three years. While she continues to have a favorable rating among Democrats, she is viewed unfavorably by 81% of Republicans and 61% of independents. The survey also revealed that President Biden’s favorability in New York has reached its lowest point at 42%.
The congestion pricing plan, which aimed to improve air quality and reduce traffic in New York City, was put on hold by Governor Hochul earlier this month. This decision was seen as an attempt to avoid voter backlash in the upcoming election and was supported by a bipartisan plurality of registered voters in New York. The plan had faced criticism from various quarters, including New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, former President Trump, and former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
While Republican critics have labeled the congestion pricing plan as a tax on commuters, left-wing activists have expressed concerns about the impact of delaying the program on funding for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Suburban voters were the most supportive of Governor Hochul’s decision to halt the congestion pricing plan, with 56% backing the move.
The Siena College survey, which included 805 registered voters from across New York state, highlighted the divided opinions on Governor Hochul’s performance and policy decisions. As the debate between President Trump and President Biden approaches, it remains to be seen how these issues will impact the political landscape in New York and beyond.