NEW YORK (VINnews) — Gov. Kathy Hochul is urging Mayor Zohran Mamdani to concentrate on New York City issues rather than international affairs, while emphasizing areas where the two Democrats share common ground.
Subscribe to our Daily Roundup Email
In a wide-ranging interview with The New York Times, Hochul said she and Mamdani have overlapping priorities, including expanding child care, improving public transportation and increasing housing.
Her comments came as the two leaders continue working together despite significant differences, particularly over Israel and the war in Gaza.
Asked about Mamdani’s criticism of Israel and his call for federal authorities to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hochul avoided directly criticizing the mayor but encouraged him to focus on city government.
“I encourage him to — let’s focus on the blocking and tackling of city government,” Hochul said, according to The New York Times.
Hochul, a moderate Democrat seeking reelection in November, also said she does not plan to raise or create new taxes next year unless New York faces additional unexpected cuts in federal aid.
She said she supports the Democratic Party’s traditional focus on health care, education and helping working families, while rejecting the idea that the growing influence of democratic socialists poses a threat to the party.
“We take care of people,” Hochul said, describing that approach as consistent with Democratic leaders including Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
The governor also addressed antisemitism and said she remains committed to protecting Jewish New Yorkers.
“I will throw my body against any antisemitism,” Hochul said. “I have, and I will.”
Hochul and Mamdani have also found common ground in opposing some federal immigration policies. Hochul expressed concern that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents could intimidate voters at polling places during the November election.
She said she has also pressed President Donald Trump to extend temporary protected status for Haitian and Salvadoran immigrants, arguing that many are essential workers, including home health aides.
The relationship between Hochul and Mamdani reflects both their shared priorities on domestic issues and their continuing disagreements over foreign policy and other matters.
Follow VINnews for Breaking News Updates