Antonio Delgado, the current Lieutenant Governor of New York, officially announced his candidacy for governor on Monday (June 2), challenging incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul in the upcoming election. Delgado's decision to run comes after months of speculation and a strained relationship with Hochul. Earlier this year, Delgado publicly stated he would not seek re-election alongside Hochul in 2026.

In a campaign video, Delgado emphasized his commitment to "bold, decisive, transformational leadership" for New York, citing his dedication to family, community, state, and country as his motivation for running. According to Mid Hudson News, Delgado first drew Hochul's ire last summer when he called for President Biden to step down from the 2024 presidential race. The tension between Delgado and Hochul escalated, leading to Hochul removing Delgado's State Capitol office and official email.

Delgado has been traveling across New York, hosting town hall events to connect with voters. Despite his efforts, a recent Siena College poll shows Delgado trailing Hochul, with only 12% of the vote compared to Hochul's 46%. Hochul's campaign benefits from significant name recognition, a $15 million campaign fund, and support from New York's powerful unions.

The Democratic Governors Association has expressed full support for Hochul, highlighting her accomplishments and ability to take on challenges for New York families. Meanwhile, Delgado's entry into the race has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a sign of Hochul's waning support among Democrats.

As the campaign unfolds, Delgado will face an uphill battle against Hochul, who has served as governor since 2021 after Andrew Cuomo's resignation and won a full term in 2022.