Joe Biden faces a major challenge in New York, with polls indicating a tightening race against former President Donald J. Trump. Despite Biden’s 23-point victory in 2020, recent polls show Trump leading in a swing district and Biden’s statewide lead down to just 8 points.
Biden’s campaign, focused on battleground states, has been criticized for neglecting New York, where Democrats have dominated for years. Democrats are now urging Biden to prioritize the Empire State, fearing the implications for House control and Biden’s own reelection prospects as Trump rises.
“We’re still acting like this is a one-party state, which for pretty much 20, 25 years it has been. I truly believe we’re a battleground state now,” laments Democratic Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.
Biden’s lack of attention could jeopardize crucial House races in swing districts in Hudson Valley and Long Island. Some Democrats are distancing themselves from Biden to strengthen their campaigns.
The shift in New York, long seen as a Democratic stronghold, underscores broader concerns about Biden’s appeal, particularly among independent voters disillusioned with his presidency.
While Democrats still dominate state politics, recent GOP gains in suburban areas and voter concerns over issues like crime, illegal immigration, and high taxes are emboldening conservatives. Thousands of bodegas endorsed Trump in April, attracted by his tough stance on law and order.
New York has grown to be a surprising source of support for Trump, with a Bronx rally in May seeing a large number of black and Hispanic supporters turn out for the former president.
Gavin Wax, the President of the New York Young Republican Club credited with kickstarting the conservative revival in the Empire State, predicted last year that Trump would not only see gains but could possibly even win there in November.
Jack Montgomery contributed to this report.