New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s popularity and job performance ratings among state residents have declined according to a recent Siena College survey.
The poll, which took place from February 12 to 14 and surveyed 806 registered voters, indicates a growing concern over the cost of living, with Hochul’s policies and leadership qualities under scrutiny.
The findings show that 41% of New Yorkers hold a favorable view of Hochul, a decrease from previous figures, against 46% who view her unfavorably.
Despite this, Hochul still enjoys a slight majority in job approval, with 48% endorsing her performance versus 47% expressing dissatisfaction.
However, last month, Hochul had a net positive favorability rating of 42-45%, and a slight majority – 52% – approved of her job performance.
Siena pollster Steven Greenberg noted, “Both Hochul’s favorability and job approval ratings fell the most with downstate suburban voters and Democrats,” attributing the shift to various factors, including budget proposals and recent political events.
The poll also delves into perceptions of Hochul’s character and effectiveness.
While 56% of respondents believe she is hard-working, opinions are divided on her leadership effectiveness and relatability to the average New Yorker.
As the state approaches budget discussions, the cost of living emerges as the paramount issue for New Yorkers, with 29% naming it their top concern, a figure that jumps to 38% in suburban areas.
The migrant crisis and crime followed as the most pressing issues.
Despite crime not appearing to be a top concern for many New Yorkers anymore, 56% still believe that crime has worsened in the past year.
More than two-thirds of Republicans and independents believe the quality of life in New York is deteriorating, as do a plurality of Democrats, at 42%.
According to the poll, President Biden leads former President Trump in a head-to-head match-up, 48-36%, slightly up from 46-37% last month.
However, 41% of voters express a preference for someone other than Biden or Trump as the next president, with each of them garnering support from 28% of voters in that scenario.
