Gov. Kathy Hochul Endorses Zohran Mamdani for NYC Mayor, Sparking Sharp GOP Backlash:

In a political move shaking up New York's mayoral race, Governor Kathy Hochul endorsed Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor on Saturday, Sept. 14. The endorsement, which came in the form of an op-ed published by The New York Times, signals a surprising alliance between the moderate governor and the 33-year-old progressive Assemblyman. "New York City deserves a mayor who will stand up to Donald Trump and make life more affordable for New Yorkers," Hochul wrote on social media, echoing sentiments from her op-ed. "Zohran and I don’t see eye to eye on everything, and I don’t expect us to. But I believe that New York is at its best when we unite — not divide." Mamdani’s recent upset win over former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the June Democratic primary stunned many within the state’s political establishment. Seen as a clear rebuke of centrist politics, Mamdani's victory has fueled momentum within the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Hochul had previously remained neutral in the race, but said ongoing conversations with Mamdani led her to back his candidacy. "In the past few months, I’ve had frank conversations with him. We’ve had our disagreements," Hochul wrote. "But I heard a leader who shares my commitment to a New York where opportunity is within reach for every family." Mamdani, who represents Queens in the New York State Assembly, welcomed the endorsement and praised Hochul’s work on affordability, childcare, and school meals. “I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s support in unifying our party,” Mamdani said in a statement. “She’s led on making life more affordable for working families, and I look forward to fighting alongside her for a stronger, safer New York City.” The endorsement adds to Mamdani’s growing list of high-profile supporters, as he continues to seek backing from top Democratic leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. However, Hochul’s move has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans. Curtis Sliwa, the lone Republican candidate in the mayoral race and founder of the Guardian Angels crime prevention group, blasted the endorsement, calling it “a match made in political hell.” “The worst governor in America just endorsed the worst candidate for mayor,” said Daniel Kurzyna, a spokesperson for Sliwa’s campaign. “They deserve each other. New Yorkers see through the backroom politics. Curtis is the only one fighting for everyday New Yorkers — not the insiders.” Ed Cox, chairman of the New York State Republican Party, also weighed in, blaming Democratic leadership for the state’s population decline. “It’s no wonder Kathy Hochul’s New York continues to lead the nation in outmigration,” Cox said. “New Yorkers are fleeing high taxes, overregulation, and Democrats’ open embrace of extremism.” Former President Donald Trump also chimed in on social media, saying Mamdani’s rise represents “a rebellion” and predicted he will win the mayoral race. With the general election heating up, Mamdani’s progressive vision for the city faces a stiff challenge from Sliwa’s law-and-order platform. Hochul’s endorsement could help consolidate Democratic support — or fuel further polarization in an already high-stakes race.

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