Hochul acknowledges potential friction with progressive allies
The governor stated that supporters of Mayor Adams might not be pleased with their public appearances together.
Governor Kathy Hochul acknowledged on Tuesday that some supporters of Mayor Adams may not be comfortable with her public political alliance with the New York City mayor. Hochul, who is seeking reelection, has been campaigning with Adams, whose base has advocated for policies such as increased taxes on the wealthy.
Hochul described Adams as "pragmatic" in his approach to governance, but conceded that his allies might not view their joint appearances favorably. "His supporters probably aren’t thrilled when they see us standing together, too, right? That’s fine," Hochul told Politico Magazine.
The governor has appeared with Adams multiple times over the weekend in an effort to boost voter turnout among younger New Yorkers in New York City, a critical area for her gubernatorial race. Adams, a prominent member of the Democratic Socialists of America, had previously pushed for higher taxes on the wealthy during budget negotiations, a stance that Hochul did not adopt.
During the previous year, Hochul had faced protests and chants from some attendees at events with Adams when they called for increased taxes. In response to such pressure, Hochul had stated, "The more you push me, the more I’m not gonna do what you want."
The New York chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America continued to press the governor on tax policies ahead of the state budget's approval, organizing rallies and online campaigns. Despite these efforts, Hochul has maintained her position, though she did provide state funds to support Adams's first city budget cycle and supported a pied-à-terre tax on luxury second homes in the city.
In May, the NYC Democratic Socialists of America criticized Hochul's actions, stating, "This is the cost of Hochul’s inaction. People will die because she refused to tax the rich and fund healthcare." They further contrasted their movement with what they characterized as Hochul's alignment with the "donor class."
Hochul, 68, is currently running for her second full four-year term. Early voting for the election on November 3 has already begun. She is facing Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman, 71, who serves as the Nassau County executive. Hochul's annual salary is $250,000.