Rep. Ritchie Torres Warns Democrats About Gov. Kathy Hochul's 2026 Vulnerability

The New York congressman suggests Hochul's unpopularity could lead to a Republican governor in the state for the first time in decades.

Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat representing the Bronx, has voiced concerns about Gov. Kathy Hochul's ability to win reelection in 2026, citing her low approval ratings and comparing her vulnerabilities to those of President Joe Biden.
Torres criticized Hochul's leadership, calling it a 'poverty of governance,' and warned that Democrats risk repeating mistakes that led to Donald Trump's 2024 presidential victory if they fail to act early.
Gov. Hochul, who narrowly won her 2022 race against Republican Lee Zeldin, faces a 34% favorability rating and a 39% job approval rating, according to a recent Siena College poll.
Torres has not ruled out a gubernatorial bid and announced plans for a 'listening tour' across upstate and suburban New York to gauge voter sentiment and raise his profile outside of the Bronx.
Hochul's office defended her record, highlighting Democratic gains in the state during the 2024 election cycle, while potential GOP challengers, including Rep. Mike Lawler, are reportedly considering a run in 2026.