New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman traded sharp accusations over crime, immigration, spending and President Donald Trump during Tuesday night’s gubernatorial debate, with both candidates seeking to draw a clear contrast ahead of Election Day.

The exchanges grew particularly pointed when the candidates challenged each other’s records on public safety and the use of taxpayer dollars, producing several memorable back-and-forth moments.

Crime and policing

Hochul challenged Blakeman over taking credit for declining crime rates in Nassau County, arguing that the downward trend began under his Democratic predecessor.

“I can’t believe you just took credit for what the Democratic predecessor in your county did — that the crime started going down,” Hochul said.

Blakeman responded with a question about the timing: “Wasn’t that during COVID?”

Immigration spending and law enforcement

Blakeman attacked Hochul’s spending priorities, contrasting the billions of dollars she says her administration has devoted to law enforcement with spending on services for undocumented immigrants.

“You say you spent $4 billion on law enforcement? Well, you spent $8 billion on illegal immigrants and gave them more benefits than New Yorkers get,” Blakeman said.

He also accused Hochul of allowing criminals to enter New York while restricting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

“You have invited criminals to come into our state and prey on our communities, and now you won’t let local law enforcement cooperate with ICE,” Blakeman said, arguing that the state’s policies fail to adequately distinguish between immigrants with criminal records and other undocumented immigrants.

Trump and personal attacks

The candidates also clashed over their political affiliations. When Hochul questioned Blakeman about what he considers great about Trump, the Republican said he disagrees with the president on several issues.

Blakeman noted that Trump had endorsed him, while adding that he had also received support from some liberal Democrats. Hochul responded sarcastically: “You got two votes, good for you.”

Hochul also accused Blakeman of associating with white supremacists. Blakeman pushed back by citing past comments by Hochul about Black people, challenging her to defend her own record.

The race ahead

With Election Day approaching on November 3, the debate offered both candidates an opportunity to make their case to voters on affordability, public safety and the direction of New York.

Blakeman, the Nassau County executive, has campaigned on cutting income taxes and utility costs, arguing that Hochul’s policies have contributed to rising expenses. Hochul has highlighted expanded childcare assistance and energy rebate programs while criticizing Blakeman over his position on Trump’s international trade tariffs.

A Marist University poll released last week showed Hochul leading Blakeman 53% to 42%, with 5% undecided. The figures suggest that affordability and the candidates’ competing records will remain central issues as the campaign enters its final stretch.

New York’s 10-day early voting period is scheduled to begin October 24.

Full Debate:

Highlights: