# Hochul and Blakeman campaign ahead of early voting

> Governor Hochul and challenger Bruce Blakeman campaign in separate events before early voting begins next weekend.
- Title: Hochul and Blakeman campaign ahead of early voting | Shortify
- Summary: Governor Hochul and challenger Bruce Blakeman campaign in separate events before early voting begins next weekend. Governor Hochul and Republican challenger…
- Keywords: kathy hochul, bruce blakeman, early voting, new york, governor, election day, campaign, news, local, Hochul, Blakeman, ahead
- Source: ABC7 New York — https://abc7ny.com/post/governor-hochul-challenger-bruce-blakeman-hit-campaign-trail-before-early-voting-underway-weekend/19953046
- Published: 2026-10-19T02:57:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kathy hochul, bruce blakeman, early voting, new york, governor, election day, campaign, news, local
## Hochul campaigns in Bronx
Governor Hochul visited Concourse Village in the Bronx to highlight policies including a ban on cell phones in schools and expanded access to community college and child care.
## Hochul's personal connection
Hochul said she knew what it was like to struggle without child care, making it a personal fight as governor.
## Blakeman campaigns in Elmont
Blakeman campaigned in Elmont on Long Island with Lee Zeldin, whom Hochul narrowly defeated in the 2022 gubernatorial election.
## Blakeman's affordability focus
Blakeman argued New Yorkers are leaving due to high costs, claiming Hochul made the state unaffordable and promising tax cuts.
## Economic outlook contrast
Hochul called New York the fastest growing economy in America, while Blakeman cited the state's economic ranking as number 50.
## Next steps for campaigns
Hochul will announce additional child-care slots for 2-year-olds in the Bronx, while Blakeman prepares for a Q&A event in Manhattan.
## Key takeaway

Governor Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman campaigned in New York ahead of early voting, highlighting differing economic and child care policies.