Greetings from Albany, NY  

In this edition, we’re breaking down the latest developments in the Gubernatorial race, spotlighting key special elections, and unpacking where things stand in the New York State budget process. We’ll also take a closer look at which legislators are not seeking re-election, who’s eyeing a new seat, and what all of it means as we head into the next few critical weeks of legislative session.

With important elections happening nationwide, there is much to watch in New York as we head toward the state primaries in June and the general election in November.

Gubernatorial Race

Governor Hochul locked in Adrienne Adams as her Lieutenant Governor running mate, marking the first all-female Democratic ticket in NYS history. Together, the pair have outlined a shared agenda focusing on strengthening public safety, expanding affordable housing and childcare, and delivering cost-of-living relief.

If elected, Adams – a former NYC Council Speaker and Queens native – would be the first Black woman to serve as Lieutenant Governor. During her tenure as Council Speaker, she built a reputation for prioritizing affordability and public safety, themes that now anchor the campaign’s broader platform.

On the Republican side, Bruce Blakeman, a former Port Authority Commissioner and current Nassau County Executive, has selected Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood as his running mate. Hood, a career law enforcement leader, has built his profile around “law and order” advocacy and public safety leadership. Together, the ticket is centering its campaign on strengthening public safety and law enforcement, addressing affordability and cost-of-living, and promoting fiscal responsibility through tighter spending.

Earlier in February, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado ended his campaign challenging Governor Hochul. He stated that he will continue working to build a more humane, affordable, and equitable New York that serves all residents.