Gov. Kathy Hochul's reelection campaign criticized Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman on Thursday over his opposition to state energy rebate checks, sharpening an early dispute over household costs and state spending.
The campaign said Blakeman opposed a $1 billion rebate program while acknowledging that he would cash a check if he receives one. Blakeman is a Republican candidate for governor, and Hochul is seeking another term as a Democrat.
Hochul has promoted the checks as immediate relief for New York households facing high utility and other living expenses. Her campaign argued that Blakeman would leave families without the state-funded payments.
The release cited news reports and social media coverage of Blakeman's comments. It did not include a direct response from his campaign.
Campaigns trade arguments over affordability
U.S. Rep. Joe Morelle, a Rochester-area Democrat, joined the criticism and said Blakeman's positions would leave New Yorkers with higher costs and fewer forms of financial relief.
Hochul campaign spokesperson Ryan Radulovacki also tied the rebate dispute to broader disagreements over tariff refunds, car insurance costs and child care policy.
The campaign portrayed Blakeman as closely aligned with President Donald Trump. Blakeman has publicly emphasized his support for Trump as he seeks the Republican nomination.
Thursday's statement was paid for by Friends for Kathy Hochul and presented the governor's political case against Blakeman. It did not provide details about eligibility, payment amounts or distribution dates for the energy rebate program.
The dispute comes as utility costs and affordability remain prominent issues in the 2026 governor's race. Voters will ultimately weigh the candidates' competing approaches to rebates, taxes and state spending.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.