Race for New York governor may be a toss-up

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – In a state where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans two-to-one, it might surprise you the race for governor is so close. Incumbent Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul had a double-digit lead in the polls just months ago. That lead has narrowed considerably with Republican Congressman Lee Zeldin closing the gap.

Zeldin was in Long Island this morning to cast his vote. He hopes his anti-crime message will help him become the first Republican governor since former Gov. George Pataki, who served as governor from 1995 to 2006. Pataki has also endorsed Zeldin.

Meantime, Governor Hochul started her day in New York City on the Upper East Side. Hochul has stressed her support for abortion rights and acting on climate change. The Buffalo native wants to become the state’s first elected female governor.

“I want to lead this state into the next four years and possibly beyond with that sense of optimism we have not had here in a long time,” said Hochul. “I want to bring that to New Yorkers and that’s what going to start first thing tomorrow morning.”

“The state is at a crossroads and in order to restore New York to glory, in order to tackle the reason why New York leads the entire county in out-migration, we all have to work together: Republicans, Democrats and Independents,” said Zeldin.

For Zeldin to overtake Hochul he’ll have to limit his loss margins in New York City and win over Independent voters throughout the state. Keep in mind, Independent voters outnumber Republicans here in New York.

News10NBC’s Nikki Rudd will be monitoring this race all night. Watch News10NBC and whec.com for the latest developments.