Get ready for a political showdown in New York! Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado has officially announced his bid to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul in the 2026 Democratic primary. This unexpected challenge sets the stage for a fascinating intra-party battle.

In a campaign video released on June 2nd, Delgado declared, “What we need right here in New York is bold, decisive, transformational leadership.” The 48-year-old former U.S. Representative, who joined Hochul’s administration in 2022, made his intentions clear in February when he declined to participate in her reelection campaign.

This decision didn’t come as a complete surprise to everyone. Hochul’s communications director, Anthony Hogrebe, commented at the time, stating, “Delgado finally said out loud what has been obvious for quite some time: he is simply not interested in doing the job of the Lieutenant Governor of the State of New York.”

This primary race promises to be a significant event in New York politics. The clash between the incumbent governor and her ambitious second-in-command will undoubtedly shape the future direction of the state. Expect a heated campaign filled with debate over policy and leadership style.