Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado visited Ithaca Sunday to rally support for his 2026 bid to unseat Gov. Kathy Hochul, according to The Ithaca Voice. Speaking to a packed room at Southside Community Center, he called for more investment in childcare and housing, while blasting corporate tax breaks and economic inequality.
Delgado pitched himself as a more progressive alternative to Hochul, criticizing her handling of the state’s housing crisis and rent protections, which he described as driven by “horse trading” instead of real reform. He also reaffirmed support for universal healthcare and taxing the wealthy — without committing to specific rates.
Though still behind Hochul in funding and endorsements, Delgado drew a sizable local crowd. Notably, some Democratic leaders declined to endorse either candidate, saying they’re waiting for the race to unfold.