Gov. Kathy Hochul's campaign is staffing up with new hires from the successful re-election bid of Democratic New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla. 

Hochul's campaign has hired Miguel Arreola to serve as research director and Jerrel Harvey to become communications director. Both worked on the Murphy campaign last year. 

Hochul has also hired Avika Dua to serve as digital director. She most recently worked on the campaign of Padilla, a Democrat from California. 

“I am thrilled that we’re bringing together a first-in-class team that will support our efforts to engage and reach voters from every background throughout New York State,” Hochul said. “These diverse and talented professionals have the expertise to hit the ground running on day one, and I look forward to working with them.”

Hochul faces a June primary, and so far has been challenged by Attorney General Letitia James, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Rep. Tom Suozzi.