Gov. Kathy Hochul and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman are no strangers to one another. As Hochul seeks a second full term as governor, she faces a challenge from Blakeman, setting up a race between two politicians who have publicly sparred for years.

One memorable exchange took place in January 2024, when Long Island business and political leaders gathered at a crowded event. During a discussion, Blakeman was asked what was on his holiday wish list from the state.

"Stay out of Long Island, basically," Blakeman responded with a laugh.

As Hochul entered the room, Blakeman continued his criticism.

"I think that the state should realize that Long Island is the goose that lays the golden egg and let us do our job," he said.

When it was her turn to speak, Hochul fired back.

"You don't want me to take all of the money with me though, right? Bruce, Long Island is here, and I'm with Long Island," she said.

More than two years later, the two are facing off in a statewide contest for governor.

Hochul is running on her record in office, pointing to tax cuts, efforts to reduce gun violence and what she says is her willingness to stand up to the Trump administration on behalf of New Yorkers.

"They know I'll stand up to ICE. They know I'll protect their families from the tariffs and all the outrageous things Washington is doing to make their lives more expensive," Hochul said.

Blakeman, meanwhile, has centered his campaign on public safety and quality-of-life issues while also highlighting his support from President Donald Trump.

"No matter what community I go to, people are saying the homelessness, the trash, the crime, the drug dealing, the gang activity is all up," Blakeman said. "So as governor, I want to make every community safe." Affordability is expected to be one of the key issues in the race.

Hochul has argued that rising costs are being driven by factors including tariffs and international instability, and says her administration is working to ease the burden on residents.

"We are doing everything we can to put more money back in New Yorkers' pockets. Largest middle-class tax rate cut in 70 years," Hochul said.

Blakeman, however, contends that state policies are contributing to higher costs and has proposed eliminating state income taxes on the first $100,000 of income.

"So your first $100,000 with me as governor? No state income tax," Blakeman said. "Number two, utility bills. They're outrageous. So as governor, I will cut the utility rates in half."

The race also carries historical significance. Hochul defeated another Long Island Republican, Lee Zeldin, in her last gubernatorial election. New York has not elected a Republican governor since George Pataki won a third term in 2002.