Governor Kathy Hochul has endorsed Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City, providing a boost to the Democratic nominee ahead of the November election. Her backing, delivered through an op-ed in The New York Times, emphasizes their shared focus on affordability and confronting federal policies under President Donald Trump. Critics have noted that Hochul’s emphasis on opposing Trump may overlook practical challenges tied to federal funding essential for New York City and State operations.
Hochul noted that she spent months in conversation with Mamdani, highlighting common priorities on affordability and public safety. “In our conversations, I heard a leader who shares my commitment to a New York where children can grow up safe in their neighborhoods and where opportunity is within reach for every family,” she wrote.
Mamdani’s platform has drawn sharp criticism. He has publicly advocated for abolishing prisons, defunding the police, and legalizing prostitution. Hochul also called on Mamdani to apologize for his 2020 comments labeling the NYPD “racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety,” which he has yet to deliver days after promising to do so. Critics have raised concerns that her endorsement signals prioritizing party alignment and left-wing support, including protection of illegal immigrants, over immediate governance needs for New Yorkers.
Despite these controversies, Hochul praised Mamdani’s leadership and expressed confidence in his ability to work with state and city officials. She emphasized confronting Trump-era policies, particularly federal funding cuts and rollbacks to social programs, as a central reason for her endorsement.
Hochul faces a challenging reelection campaign next year, with Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado mounting a primary challenge. Outside of New York City, much of the state leans Republican, which could make securing support from progressive factions, including the Democratic Socialists of America, an important factor in her bid for another term.
Mamdani welcomed Hochul’s support, noting her leadership on affordability issues. “There’s so much work left to do, and our movement is only growing stronger,” he stated.
With Mamdani leading in the polls, Hochul’s backing may help consolidate Democratic support, though questions remain about whether her focus on party alignment and opposition to Trump adequately addresses practical governance and funding challenges facing New Yorkers.
