New York Republicans deploy Trump-style strategy and Super PAC funding

Republican Bruce Blakeman is utilizing a political strategy modeled after Donald Trump for his New York gubernatorial campaign. His platform focuses on immigration crackdowns and criticisms of Democratic management. Despite this alignment, polling shows incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul leading Blakeman 50% to 41% among likely voters.

In the race for Attorney General, the Super PAC Strong and Safe New York, which is funded by Knicks owner James Dolan and Steve Wynn, is launching a seven-figure investment to support Republican candidate Saritha Komatireddy. The group is deploying billboards across Long Island, Westchester, and Rockland counties to promote Komatireddy’s safety and security agenda against Democratic incumbent Letitia James.

Komatireddy, a former federal prosecutor, has recently gained momentum following a debate performance where she challenged James on the state’s cashless bail laws. The Republican efforts aim to address concerns regarding crime, homelessness, and hate crimes in the state.