New York Republican gubernatorial candidate and current Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman spoke with Epoch Times on August 31st, sharing his campaign philosophy. Contrasting himself with the incumbent governor by using a report card analogy, Blakeman asserted, “If you compare my track record in Nassau County with Hochul’s, she gets an overall grade of F, while I receive an A.”
In the interview, Blakeman highlighted cost of living, utility fees, public safety, and job creation as the four core issues and demonstrated his determination to reshape New York State based on his governance experience in Nassau County.
Blakeman noted widespread dissatisfaction with life under Governor Hochul, labeling New York as the “highest taxed state” in the U.S. He attributed population outflow to high tax burdens and emphasized that during his four years as Nassau County Executive, “not a single penny of tax has been increased,” and he even blocked a proposed $150 million tax hike.
Regarding housing affordability, Blakeman advocated for tax cuts, reduced utility fees, and the creation of more high-paying job opportunities, aiming to give residents “more money in their pockets” to afford homeownership and rent.
Hochul’s administration has focused on targeted subsidies and tax rate incentives rather than across-the-board tax cuts. Hochul’s reelection campaign emphasized reducing taxes for the middle class, lowering tax rates to nearly the lowest levels in 70 years, benefiting over 8.3 million taxpayers. Furthermore, the state government issued one-time inflation rebate checks to around 8.2 million New Yorkers.
Blakeman criticized Hochul for approving 48 rate hikes during her four years in office, leading to utility fees in New York being 70% above the national average. He promised voters that if elected, one of his top priorities would be to cut New Yorkers’ utility bills in half.
In contrast, Hochul’s strategies have been more targeted towards eligible groups with specific subsidies. The state has invested over $1 billion annually through programs like the “energy affordability plan” and residential energy efficiency upgrades to help families reduce energy bills. Blakeman’s focus lies on addressing the overall burden faced by all general energy consumers due to rising electricity and gas costs.
Branding Hochul as the “most criminal-friendly governor in the U.S.,” Blakeman criticized her criminal justice policies for increasing safety risks for New Yorkers.
Recently, a parolee with a record of 13 arrests was implicated in a series of robberies in New York City, resulting in two deaths. Blakeman condemned Hochul’s parole board for releasing violent offenders back onto the streets, accusing Hochul of always prioritizing criminals.
Citing the ranking from U.S. News & World Report, designating Nassau County as the safest county in the U.S., Blakeman pledged to increase support for the police force and rebuild order in New York State.
“Hochul and Mamdani treat businesses as enemies, while I view businesses as partners,” summarized Blakeman, outlining his economic philosophy. He emphasized, “Only businesses can create prosperity; the government simply takes your money, but businesses offer you the opportunity to earn.”
Blakeman pointed out that New York State ranks at the bottom in terms of “economic outlook” according to the 2026 Rich States, Poor States report, with many businesses and residents migrating to low-tax states like Texas and Florida.
He highlighted achievements during his tenure in Nassau County, such as achieving four budget surpluses, receiving seven bond rating upgrades, and increasing GDP from $81 billion to $131 billion. Blakeman vowed to replicate Nassau County’s successful experiences state-wide.
Regarding Asian American voters, Blakeman mentioned receiving “record-breaking” support from the Asian community in the previous election. He attributed this to his support for small businesses, public education, job creation, and advocating for reduced tax burdens and utility fees.
He also mentioned the cultural activities celebrating the Lunar New Year in Nassau County, attracting thousands of residents.
Speaking about Flushing, Blakeman referred to Main Street as a “vibrant economic area” crucial not only for Queens and New York City but for the entire state.
To address issues of litter, street disorder, and law enforcement in Flushing, he proposed increased infrastructure investment, streamlining onerous regulations that harm local businesses, and bolstering police presence to maintain safety.
“I will strive to make communities cleaner, safer, and more orderly, while allowing small businesses to thrive without worries,” concluded Blakeman.