New York Governor Kathy Hochul has indicated she is open to the possibility of being a vice presidential candidate on the Democratic ticket in 2028. In comments to The New York Times, Hochul stated, "I will say this. I didn’t get to where I am by slamming doors."
Hochul's remarks come as the Democratic Party begins to look toward the 2028 presidential election. Several prominent figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, are frequently mentioned as potential presidential contenders.
Despite acknowledging the potential for a national role, Hochul emphasized that her immediate focus remains on her responsibilities as governor. "So, as someone who has the support of the people of my state — and they know I’m fighting for them for the next four years, I’m going to keep doing that," she told The New York Times. She also highlighted initiatives like universal childcare, expressing a desire to become a national voice on such issues.
A Democratic strategist told The New York Times that Hochul, while not yet a nationally prominent figure among Democrats, should not be counted out. "Clearly she [Hochul] hasn’t been in the discourse with more nationally prominent Democrats around the country, but I wouldn’t take that as a disadvantage," said Isaac Goldberg.
Hochul recently secured re-election for her second four-year term as governor, defeating Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman with 59.7% of the vote.
During a Politico event in March, Hochul described the Democratic Party as having a "deep bench" of "highly qualified individuals" who could run for president in 2028, adding, "Maybe I have a bias toward governors, but they’re all my friends."
Hochul has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, including accusing his administration of withholding counterterrorism funds for New York. She also previously expressed excitement about the prospect of a Democrat-led Congress investigating Trump's actions.