Governor Kathy Hochul has endorsed Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor, highlighting their shared focus on affordability and opposition to President Donald Trump. In her New York Times op-ed, Hochul praised Mamdani’s leadership but did not address concerns about his policies, which include abolishing prisons, defunding the police, and legalizing prostitution. Although Mamdani said he would apologize to the NYPD for labeling them racist and accusing them of sexual violence, the apology has yet to be delivered, days later.
Critics argue Hochul’s endorsement prioritizes party alignment and anti-Trump messaging over practical governance, noting New York City and State rely on federal funding. They say putting ideological battles and protections for illegal immigrants ahead of immediate needs could hurt New Yorkers.