Blakeman Held Fundraiser in Western New York
The Republican gubernatorial candidate campaigned on affordability issues at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman visited Western New York to host a campaign fundraiser at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino. He also delivered a speech addressing affordability concerns while touring the region.
Why it matters
The candidate is focusing on economic affordability and donor outreach as he works to gain momentum in the state gubernatorial race.
A Siena University poll released September 23 shows Gov. Kathy Hochul leading the race with 50% compared to 41% for Blakeman. This represents a 9-point lead for the incumbent governor.
The players
Bruce Blakeman
He is a Republican candidate for governor who is currently campaigning across the state.
Kathy Hochul
She is the incumbent Governor of New York who is currently leading in polling for the upcoming election.
JC Seneca
He is the President of the Seneca Nation who hosted the candidate at the resort.
Nick Langworthy
He is a Republican official who attended the fundraising event in Western New York.
George Borello
He is a Republican official who was present at the campaign event alongside fellow party members.
The details
Blakeman held the event alongside Seneca Nation President JC Seneca and fellow Republicans Nick Langworthy and George Borello. The stop in Buffalo highlighted the candidate's platform regarding the cost of living.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: Siena University released gubernatorial poll results.
October 5, 2026: Bruce Blakeman held campaign stops in Western New York.
Market Landscape
The event reflects the intense efforts required to shift political market share in a race where the incumbent maintains a significant lead. Blakeman is attempting to use regional events to differentiate his affordability platform from the current administration.
Residents of Western New York may experience increased campaign activity and political outreach in their local communities as the election nears. The candidate's focus on affordability suggests voters will hear more specific policy proposals regarding local cost-of-living challenges.
The takeaway
Blakeman is attempting to bridge the gap in his gubernatorial bid by prioritizing regional outreach in Western New York. Voters should track how candidates address specific economic concerns as the campaign cycle approaches its final stages.
Further reading
Find more campaign updates on our New York philanthropy section.
Live Poll
Does a candidate's focus on affordability influence how you plan to vote?
