Governor Kathy Hochul of New York is already showing signs of desperation as the 2026 election looms more than a year away.
From deploying National Guard members to introducing questionable policies, she seems to be scrambling for solutions as her political position weakens.
Critics argue that Hochul’s recent actions, including the controversial congestion pricing fees and small inflation rebates, reflect her efforts to save face rather than offer meaningful change.
With mounting opposition and weakening support, the question is no longer about whether she can win re-election but rather how much damage she will do during her remaining time in office.
National Guard Deployment: A Desperate Measure
One of the most recent signs of Governor Hochul’s political struggles is her decision to send an additional 250 National Guard members to patrol New York City’s subway system during the busy Christmas shopping season.
While the goal is to ensure public safety, the National Guard’s role is limited. They are only allowed to check luggage, not handle actual law enforcement duties.
This move has been criticized as a superficial attempt to reassure the public about security, without offering real solutions to the city’s growing safety concerns.
Congestion Pricing: A Controversial Move
Hochul’s congestion pricing plan has also been met with criticism. The governor recently reduced the original $15 toll to $9, claiming to save New Yorkers money.
However, this decrease is only temporary, as tolls are expected to increase to $12 by 2028 and $15 by 2031. Critics argue that the toll hikes will be largely unnoticed due to the use of EZPass, a system that makes price increases less apparent to drivers.
These measures have raised concerns among residents who feel the governor is prioritizing short-term photo opportunities over long-term solutions.
Inflation Rebates: A Political Gimmick?
In an attempt to win back favor, Hochul has also introduced a $500 “Inflation Reduction” rebate.
However, this rebate is little more than a political stunt. Initially touted as a significant relief measure, the rebate is now just a proposal in the state’s budget, which is still months away from being finalized.
Additionally, the rebate amount is far from adequate, covering only a fraction of the financial burden caused by the rising congestion tolls.
Critics argue that the rebate is more about improving Hochul’s image than providing meaningful relief to struggling New Yorkers.
Political Threats and Opposition
Governor Hochul is facing mounting political threats ahead of the 2026 election. Bronx Democrat Ritchie Torres and Hudson Valley Republican Mike Lawler are both positioning themselves as challengers, further weakening her grip on power.
Even Hochul’s own lieutenant governor, Antonio Delgado, is raising his profile for a potential future run for office, indicating a lack of loyalty within her own party.
With key figures already preparing for the next election, Hochul’s political future seems uncertain, and her desperate attempts to shore up her position could backfire.
Abandoning Common-Sense Measures
Hochul’s struggles are further highlighted by her abandonment of key policies that she once championed.
For instance, she has reversed her stance on limiting funds to declining school districts, a decision that was made to appease suburban voters and teachers’ unions. Despite research showing the inefficiency of continuing to fund districts with declining enrollments,
Hochul has agreed to maintain the “hold harmless” provision, which guarantees continued funding to these districts, even if student numbers are falling. Critics see this as an example of Hochul prioritizing political allies over common-sense fiscal policy.
Conclusion: A Struggling Governor
As the 2026 election approaches, Governor Kathy Hochul is clearly struggling to maintain control and address the challenges facing New York.
Her recent actions, from deploying the National Guard to introducing controversial policies, suggest a leader who is trying to save face rather than lead effectively.
With opposition growing and political loyalty wavering, the question for New Yorkers is not whether Hochul can win re-election, but how much damage she will cause in the meantime.
FAQs
1. Why did Governor Hochul send the National Guard to the subway system?
Governor Hochul deployed an additional 250 National Guard members to patrol the subway system to provide a sense of security during the busy holiday season.
However, their role is limited to checking luggage and not handling law enforcement duties.
2. What is the controversy surrounding congestion pricing in New York?
Governor Hochul reduced the original $15 congestion toll to $9, but this reduction is temporary, with prices set to rise to $12 in 2028 and $15 in 2031.
Critics argue that the hikes will be less noticeable due to the EZPass system.
3. How does the inflation rebate work in New York?
Governor Hochul has proposed a $500 rebate to help with inflation.
However, the rebate is seen as insufficient, covering only a small fraction of the financial burden caused by the rising congestion tolls.
4. Who is challenging Governor Hochul in the 2026 election?
Governor Hochul faces potential challengers from Bronx Democrat Ritchie Torres and Hudson Valley Republican Mike Lawler, both of whom are positioning themselves for a run in the 2026 election.
5. What is the “hold harmless” provision in New York’s school funding?
The “hold harmless” provision ensures that declining school districts continue to receive funding, even if their student enrollment drops.
Governor Hochul’s support for this provision has been criticized as wasteful and politically motivated.
