New York Governor Kathy Hochul is scheduled to attend her annual political gathering in Puerto Rico this week but will not host her event at the governor’s residence. This decision comes after Hochul endorsed Bruce Blakeman, who ran against her in the gubernatorial race.
The governor's SOMOS party will take place at the Antiguo Casino de Puerto Rico on Thursday evening, according to individuals familiar with the event. For the past two years, Hochul has opted not to hold her gala at the residence of Puerto Rico’s governor, Jenniffer González-Colón.
Earlier this year, Hochul publicly supported Blakeman during his campaign. This endorsement was facilitated in part by Brock Pierce, a supporter of former New York City Mayor Eric Adams and a significant donor to Blakeman's campaign, contributing $143,000 of his personal funds. The objective of this backing was to bolster Blakeman's support within the Hispanic community.
Puerto Rico is home to over a million residents of Puerto Rican descent, with a substantial portion residing in New York City. Historically, New York governors and other state officials, alongside New York City representatives, have convened in San Juan following the November elections. This event, known as the SOMOS conference, typically includes union leaders, lobbyists, advocates, and numerous elected officials.
Hochul previously held her gathering at La Fortaleza, the official residence of the governor, before González-Colón’s election in 2024.
The governor's public schedule in Puerto Rico includes attending the annual labor breakfast on Saturday morning. Following the conference, Hochul plans to spend additional private time on the island with her family, according to sources close to the governor.