A new poll from Siena college shows that Republican challenger John Katko leads the Democratic incumbent Congressman in the 24th district, Dan Maffei by 10 points. That's a change from five weeks ago, when Katko, a former federal prosecutor, was trailing by eight points. Katko now leads 52 to 42 percent.
Maffei continues his large lead in Syracuse, though the numbers are down a little. The Central-NY based district includes all of Wayne County.
Pollster Steve Greenberg says that Katko has increased his lead among Republicans and independents.
Greenberg says that a key difference in the campaign since last month has been Maffei's favorability rating, which previously was eight points on the positive side, but is now 13 points on the negative side.
Maffei's campaign released poll results from a Global Strategy Group survey that was conducted from October 20 to October 22. They say it shows Maffei leading Katko, 45% to 40%.
Maffei first won the congressional seat in 2008, then lost it to Ann Marie Buerkle in 2010, and regained the seat in 2012.
Maffei and Katko will debate live from the WCNY studios in Syracuse this week.
That debate will air live on WXXI-TV, AM 1370, and WEOS-FM 89.5 (Geneva) Wednesday, October 29 at 8 p.m. Audio will also stream live at wxxinews.org.
