Mamdani to Campaign with Hochul Ahead of Election Day

Mayor Zohran Mamdani will campaign with Gov. Kathy Hochul in Brooklyn on Friday afternoon, less than two weeks before Election Day. This marks the first time the New York City mayor has explicitly campaigned for Hochul, who is seeking re-election against Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman.

Mamdani, who received Hochul's endorsement in his successful mayoral primary bid last year, is expected to greet voters and distribute literature alongside the governor. The appearance comes as Hochul, a moderate Democrat, seeks to mobilize different wings of her party.

While Mamdani and Hochul have appeared together at numerous official government press conferences, including events promoting childcare initiatives, this marks a more direct campaign effort. Hochul's campaign recently released an advertisement featuring Mamdani, highlighting the governor's role in securing funding for New York City's 3-K and a pilot 2-K program. In a promotional video last week, Mamdani praised Hochul, stating, "That’s why she’s the real deal for New Yorkers, and Bruce Blakeman? He’s a bad apple."

Hochul has also emphasized her commitment to childcare, noting its personal significance to her as a mother and grandmother. "As New York’s first mom — and grandmother — governor, childcare is personal to me. That’s why I’m proud to work alongside Zohran Mamdani to bring New York one step closer to universal childcare," she said in the recent ad.

This joint appearance follows past instances where Hochul faced vocal reactions from some of Mamdani's progressive base. During a campaign event last year, she encountered "tax the rich" chants from attendees. Similar jeers were heard several weeks later at a Democratic conference in Puerto Rico.

Mamdani's endorsement and active campaigning are seen as an effort to rally progressive voters to support Hochul's re-election bid.