Antonio Delgado challenges Kathy Hochul in rare primary showdown

In the United States, specifically New York, political tensions have escalated as Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado formally declared his intention to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul in the 2026 gubernatorial election. This marks a significant moment, as it is quite unusual for a sitting lieutenant governor to run against their own governor, indicating substantial discord within the Democratic Party in the state. Delgado's announcement comes after a period of mounting tension and public disagreements between the two leaders, a situation exacerbated by their differing views on key political issues and leadership styles. Kathy Hochul, who became New York's first female governor in August 2021 after Andrew Cuomo's resignation, has been preparing for her re-election campaign. Recent polls have shown her approval ratings holding steady, yet a significant majority of voters express a desire for alternative candidates in the upcoming election. In a Siena College survey, it was revealed that only 36% of registered voters currently support her re-election, with 55% indicating they prefer a different candidate. Among Democrats, 51% indicated support for Hochul, while 38% were leaning toward someone else, suggesting internal division within her base as well. The backdrop of this primary challenge involves Delgado's previous role as a supportive lieutenant governor, a position he was appointed to by Hochul after her predecessor faced legal troubles. Over time, their working relationship has deteriorated, leading to public disagreements, which have been amplified by recent political developments, including notable disputes over leadership approaches, electoral strategies, and responses to other political figures. As Delgado makes this move, he frames his candidacy as a bid for