Influential Democratic Donor Ditches Kathy Hochul and Backs Republican Opponent– www.westernjournal.com
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EXCERPT:
A major Democratic donor will support Republican Bruce Blakeman in his effort to oust Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Bonnie Englebardt Lautenberg, the widow of former Democratic Sen. Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey, has crossed party lines, according to the New York Post.
“It’s the talk of the Hamptons,” said one Democrat who expressed surprise. “It’s a good get for Bruce.”
Lautenberg, a 79-year-old philanthropist, had donated $1,000 to Hochul’s re-election campaign in July 2025 as part of her longtime support of various Democrats.
Lautenberg confirmed she would hold a fundraiser to help Blakeman’s campaign.
“Bruce is a longtime friend and neighbor. He’s a great guy,” she said.
Blakeman said, “I am honored to have the support of Bonnie Lautenberg in my campaign for governor.”