New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado officially launched his campaign to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul in next year’s Democratic primary on Monday, June 2nd, marking a rare and tense intra-party contest. Delgado’s announcement comes after months of political discord between the two leaders, signaling a sharp departure from their earlier partnership.
Delgado, who was appointed lieutenant governor by Hochul in 2022, criticized the governor’s leadership as lacking “bold, decisive, transformational leadership.” In a campaign video, he emphasized his commitment to represent everyday New Yorkers, contrasting himself with what he described as “the powerful and well-connected” who have their champions. Without mentioning Hochul by name, Delgado called for a governor with a clear vision to address issues such as affordable housing, childcare, and healthcare.
The relationship between Delgado and Hochul has deteriorated significantly over the past year. After publicly breaking ranks on several occasions, including calling for New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ resignation and choosing not to back Hochul’s re-election campaign, Delgado was stripped of key responsibilities, including office space and staff. He recounted feeling excluded from major decisions, noting that nominations, such as that of Justice Hector D. LaSalle proceeded without his input.
Despite Delgado’s efforts to raise his profile through a statewide tour and outreach to progressive groups, polls show he faces an uphill battle. A Siena College survey from May indicated that Hochul holds a substantial lead, with 46% of Democratic voters supporting her in a hypothetical primary compared to Delgado’s 12%. Additionally, more than half of voters were unfamiliar with Delgado. Fundraising numbers also reveal a significant gap; Hochul reported $15.5 million in her campaign account as of January, while Delgado’s war chest stood under $1 million.
Reactions within the Democratic Party have been mixed. Some elected officials, like Representative Pat Ryan, voiced support for Hochul, highlighting her record on issues ranging from housing to public safety. Others acknowledged the need for new leadership but questioned Delgado’s timing and strategy. Former state Democratic Party Chair Basil Smikle expressed concern that Delgado was focusing on telling “the whole state why the sitting governor is, in his opinion, not qualified to be there” instead of driving more people, particularly men and Black men, to vote Democratic.
The 2026 gubernatorial primary will be the first in New York where candidates for governor and lieutenant governor run on a joint ticket in the primary, a change pushed through by Hochul following her split with Delgado. Both candidates must now select running mates as they prepare for the June 23rd primary.
