Patch AM Rewind: 'Tough Competitor' Hochul Faces Zeldin For Governor

LONG ISLAND, NY — It's on to the general election for Gov. Kathy Hochul, who had a resounding victory in Tuesday night's Democratic primary. She'll battle Congressman Lee Zeldin from Suffolk County in November.

"[She] is one tough competitor," Political strategist Hank Sheinkopf, a guest on Wednesday's "Patch AM," said. "She took control of the governor's office from day one. She hasn't stopped working."

Hochul defeated Jumaane Williams, the New York City Public Advocate, by more than 40 points.

Sheinkopf believes that Zeldin does have a path to victory in the general election.

"The question is 'How much money can he raise to be competitive?'" Sheinkopf pondered. "She'll have $70 million when it's all said and done, which is a record-breaking amount for a New York governor's race."

While one Long Islander campaigns for governor, another lost badly Tuesday night, as Congressman Tom Suozzi finished third among the Democrats.

"[He] suffered defeat before and come back to win," Sheinkopf said. "The job he always wanted was to be governor. He has something to offer, but the people in power are really not going to forgive him for running against her."

Watch the full "Patch AM" interview below.