Kathy Hochul on Approval Rating

Fluctuating gubernatorial approval (strong)

TL;DR

Governor Kathy Hochul's approval ratings show fluctuations but generally reflect a lead over her political challenger.

Key Points

In February 2026, the governor's favorability rating was measured at 49% favorable and 40% unfavorable in one poll.
Her approval rating was noted as hitting its highest level since she assumed office in 2021 in an early 2026 report.
She held a significant lead over the Republican challenger, though polling in March 2026 indicated this gap was shrinking.

Summary

Kathy Hochul's standing with New York voters, as measured by various polls, has been a consistent metric tracked throughout her tenure as governor. Her favorability rating has seen notable shifts, sometimes reaching a high point that is the best since she initially took office in 2021. These polling numbers are frequently juxtaposed against her approval for her job performance, which, while sometimes lower than her favorability, has also been characterized as reaching a high point in early 2026.

Recent polling data from early 2026 indicated that her favorability rating reached a new high, sometimes measured at 49% favorable versus 40% unfavorable, according to one analysis. Furthermore, her lead in hypothetical matchups against the Republican challenger has remained commanding in some reports, though other polling suggested that gap was narrowing as of March 2026. The governor's team often highlights these positive indicators when framing her executive performance for the public and supporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kathy Hochul's current approval rating?

Recent polling data from early 2026 suggests Kathy Hochul's approval and favorability metrics have been strong, with her favorability reaching a new high. The governor's job approval has also reportedly hit its best figures since she started her term in 2021.

Has Kathy Hochul's approval rating changed recently?

Yes, her approval rating has shown fluctuations, with some reports in early 2026 indicating she hit her highest favorability rating since 2021. However, other data suggested the lead she held over her opponent was narrowing as of March 2026.

What did Kathy Hochul say about her latest poll numbers?

The governor's office typically highlights the positive aspects of the polling data released by research institutions, such as record-high favorability. She generally uses these figures to underscore public support for her administration's direction.

Sources10