Blakeman embarks on rapid statewide campaign ahead of New York election

The tour began Sunday morning with an event on Long Island, Blakeman’s home base. He subsequently intends to make brief stops in Oswego, Albany, and Rensselaer County before returning to Long Island.

On Monday, Blakeman’s schedule includes visits to Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Binghamton, culminating in a final appearance in Manhattan the day before the election.

“We are leaving no stone left unturned,” Blakeman stated to supporters, donors, and fellow Republicans at a Northport golf course.

To manage the ambitious itinerary, Blakeman plans to travel by air between each location to deliver his message to voters in cities that often favor Democratic candidates.

Blakeman currently trails incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul by a significant margin in recent polls. Unofficial election data indicates that registered Democrats have surpassed Republicans in early voting, even in traditionally Republican areas like Long Island.

Despite this, Republicans are more inclined to vote on Election Day, according to various studies. Blakeman hopes his final push will encourage undecided or disengaged New Yorkers to participate in the election and vote for him.

A recent Convos poll revealed that 83% of Long Islanders have already decided who they will support, suggesting limited potential for last-minute shifts. The poll did not, however, assess direct support between Hochul and Blakeman.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Blakeman expresses confidence in his ability to win the state, claiming the race is “in a dead heat.” He anticipates a strong Republican turnout on Election Day, Tuesday.