Gov. Kathy Hochul holds a commanding early lead over three potential Republican challengers in the 2026 New York governor’s race, fresh polling shows. Hochul leads Rep. Elise Stefanik by 23 points, 47 to 24%,

Siena College tested Hochul's support in possible matchups against Reps. Michael Lawler and Elise Stefanik, as well as Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

A top aide to Gov. Kathy Hochul was slapped with a suspension as an investigation was launched into claims he sexually harassed another staffer, The Post has learned. Hochul press

Avi Small, the governor's press secretary and a familiar figure among the New York press corps, was placed on leave last week.

Hochul’s office placed Small on leave last week amid a new, separate investigation into an allegation he inappropriately touched a staffer, the New York Times reported Wednesday. Politico reported the alleged incident occurred at a downtown Albany bar following a June 16 staff retreat.