New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently drew criticism from conservative media personalities and politicians for wearing a hijab during a visit to the Islamic Cultural Center of New York.
Critics, including media figures and politicians, accused the governor of subjugating herself and making statements interpreted as capitulating to the "third world." This backlash mirrors criticism Hochul faced last year when Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, commented on her wearing a headscarf at the funeral of a Muslim police officer. At the time, Hochul responded that she was demonstrating respect for a "grieving family's faith" and acting as "leaders and anyone with basic decency would do."
The governor's office has not yet responded to requests for comment on the recent backlash. However, some commentators on the right, often associated with the MAGA movement, interpreted Hochul's gesture differently.
Fox News' Riley Gaines suggested that Hochul's choice was a repudiation of feminism. Newsmax host Rob Schmitt echoed this sentiment, posting, "Yes hide your hair. Subjugate yourself to Islam and men." Right-wing influencer Matt Van Swol shared an image of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, with the caption "New York forgot."
The criticism extended to members of Congress. Representative Brandon Gill, R-Texas, attempted to frame the situation as hypocritical. The New York Young Republican Club stated, "Hochul is being her typical self: bowing to the third world."