Utility rebate checks arrive in New York as election looms

The $1 billion initiative, approved within the state budget in May, was presented by Hochul as a measure to alleviate rising energy costs, which have increased by 27% to 46% during her tenure.

However, Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman has criticized the program, labeling it a “big election-year scam.” He has previously downplayed the value of the checks, questioning their impact on New Yorkers’ finances, as they are based on income reported in 2024 tax returns.

Criticism of the rebate checks also came from Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s team. On Monday, Chief of Staff Elle Bisgaard-Church and Economic Development Corporation Board Chair Lina Khan argued that one-time payments are ineffective and fail to address the root causes of high costs. They advocated for systemic changes and addressing corporate influence.

City Hall has expressed support for Hochul’s program, stating that it welcomes solutions providing immediate relief alongside long-term structural changes.

The differing views between Mamdani’s aides and Hochul highlight a divide between the democratic socialist mayor and the moderate governor, despite their recent joint campaign appearance.

Hochul has avoided committing to supporting Mamdani’s proposals for increased taxes on high earners, instead offering a vague response when questioned about potential policy changes if re-elected.

A Siena University poll conducted a week before the election showed Hochul leading Blakeman by approximately 14 points, with 54% support compared to Blakeman’s 40%.