Hochul Keeps Running Mate Secret Ahead of Convention

Governor dismisses rumors of chaos, says other contenders declined vetting.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul has locked in a new running mate to replace outgoing Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, but is keeping the identity of the pick a secret until a planned announcement later this week in Syracuse. Hochul has dismissed rumors of chaos in the selection process, saying other contenders simply declined to undergo vetting.

Why it matters

The selection of a new running mate is a critical decision for Hochul as she heads into the Democratic convention and the November election against Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman. Hochul's refusal to name the pick has generated suspense and speculation, with the choice potentially shaping the campaign's focus on key issues like immigration policy.

The details

According to Spectrum News 1, Hochul has made one offer and received one acceptance for the lieutenant governor position, but is waiting to reveal the identity of the new running mate. Hochul plans to formally announce the pick later this week in Syracuse, marking her third lieutenant governor in five years.

  • Hochul plans to reveal the new running mate later this week in Syracuse.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The current Governor of New York, who is locking in a new running mate to replace outgoing Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado.

Antonio Delgado

The outgoing Lieutenant Governor of New York, who is being replaced by Hochul's new running mate pick.

Bruce Blakeman

The Republican challenger to Hochul in the upcoming November election.

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What they’re saying

“Hochul dismissed rumors of chaos, saying other contenders simply declined vetting.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York (Spectrum News 1)

What’s next

Hochul plans to formally announce her new running mate later this week in Syracuse.

The takeaway

Hochul's refusal to name her new running mate has generated suspense and speculation, with the choice potentially shaping the key issues of the campaign, such as immigration policy, as she heads into the Democratic convention and the November election against her Republican challenger.