Blakeman Calls Hochul 'Puppet' of NYC Mayor Mamdani

Republican New York gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman asserted Sunday that Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul is a "nothing more than his puppet," alleging she is controlled by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Speaking at a campaign rally in Yorktown Heights, New York, Blakeman, who also serves as Nassau County executive, criticized Hochul for aligning with Mamdani and accused both of failing to address rising crime and illegal immigration.

"Kathy Hochul, she was out campaigning with Mamdani this week," Blakeman stated, as reported by the New York Post. "And I say that’s great. Please take him everywhere you go, Kathy, because I want to remind people that this un-American, antisemite, anti-Christian mayor is running the Democratic Party and Kathy Hochul is nothing more than his puppet."

Blakeman's remarks come as Hochul has been seen campaigning with Mamdani, including at a recent rally in Brooklyn. This political alliance occurs amid a growing influence of democratic socialists within New York politics. Mamdani's mayoral victory last year and the subsequent successes of candidates aligned with his movement in congressional primaries, which saw the defeat of two Democratic incumbents, highlight this trend.

Blakeman has previously targeted Hochul and Mamdani on public safety issues, contending that they have not adequately addressed crime in New York City. Earlier this month, during a subway campaign appearance, Blakeman characterized Hochul as the "most pro-criminal governor."

Mamdani has also publicly criticized Blakeman, accusing the Republican candidate of engaging in "bigotry and racism" following a debate between Blakeman and Hochul. Mamdani commented on Hochul's response to Blakeman's criticisms, telling reporters, "I think the governor did a good job. And I'll never fault someone for not being able to catch all of it because that is a fool's errand when it comes to Bruce Blakeman."

Hochul and Mamdani have focused their campaigns on issues such as affordability and childcare, asserting that their policies are designed to reduce costs for working families. Representatives for Hochul and Mamdani did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.