‘Pay attention to New York, not Israel’: Gov. Kathy Hochul advises NYC Mayor Mamdani in rift

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is navigating the complexities of the Democratic Party's internal rift over support for Israel as she campaigns for reelection. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Hochul emphasized focusing on local governance, urging New York City Mayor Eric Adams to prioritize city issues like childcare, bus speeds, and housing.

Hochul, who identifies as a "Biden Democrat," also reaffirmed her strong stance against antisemitism, stating, "I will throw my body against any antisemitism. I have, and I will." She acknowledged shared goals with the progressive wing of the party, including expanding healthcare and education, and welcomed the energy from young people involved in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

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I encourage him to - ‘let’s focus on the blocking and tackling of city government.’

This approach contrasts with some other New York Democrats, like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who have sought to distance themselves from the DSA agenda. Hochul's comments come amid a broader national debate within the Democratic Party, highlighted by the primary losses of centrist, Israel-supporting Democrats to anti-Israel Democratic Socialists in other races. Hochul faces Republican Bruce Blakeman in the upcoming November election.

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I will throw my body against any antisemitism. I have, and I will.