Kathy Hochul’s victory in New York’s gubernatorial race is a boost for the state’s film and television industry. The Democratic incumbent comfortably defeated Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, with NBC News calling the race as Hochul held a 47-point lead while about one-fifth of votes had been tallied.
During Hochul’s tenure, New York has increased its efforts to attract productions. The state recorded $1.6 billion in production spending last quarter, bringing it closer to California as a preferred filming location. Actors’ Equity, IATSE and AFM Local 802 endorsed Hochul.
New York has established a production tax credit program worth $800 million annually through 2036, with a further $100 million set aside to support independent productions. Soundstages have also opened across the city’s five boroughs.
Adam Gordon, co-founder of Astoria’s Wildflower Studios, told The Hollywood Reporter that Hochul understands the industry’s contribution to jobs, small businesses and the creative economy. The studio, completed in 2024, is now fully occupied, and recent productions filmed there include Focker-in-Law.
Hochul also signed laws regulating the use of artificial intelligence in media and advertising, described in the source as the first of their kind in the United States. She also lifted restrictions on dancing in New York bars.
The gubernatorial result comes as New York remains a major production hub outside California. The state’s tax incentives, studio capacity and continued political support are central to its efforts to attract film and television work.
Sources: The Hollywood Reporter.