Progressive New York City Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani declined to endorse fellow Democrat Kathy Hochul for reelection as state governor in a debate on Thursday, marking a significant snub after she endorsed the Queens legislator in his run to lead New York City.
Newsweek contacted Hochul’s office for comment by email after office hours.
Why It Matters
An endorsement of Hochul would be significant, given Mamdani’s popularity, particularly among younger progressive Democrats. His backing would also represent a bridge between different wings of the Democratic Party.
Mamdani’s decision to withhold his endorsement takes on added significance in light of Hochul’s mayoral endorsement of him last month. It raised the prospect of a growing rift within the party as New York confronts policies from President Donald Trump’s administration that directly impact the city’s federal funding.
What To Know
In the mayoral debate between state Assemblymember Mamdani, independent candidate Andrew Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa
held at 30 Rock Studios at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, Mamdani was asked about his support for Hochul.
The moderator requested a show of hands for who supports Hochul for reelection in New York’s next gubernatorial election, scheduled for November 3, 2026. No one raised their hand.
“It’s a decision that should be made after this general election,” Mamdani said, referring to the New York mayoral election in less than three weeks, on November 4.
Cuomo, pressed by the moderator for a response, said: “You have to know who’s running.”
Mamdani then continued: “I would add that I do think that Kathy Hochul, our governor, has been doing a good job, not only in delivering for New York but in standing up to Donald Trump.”
Pressed again on his support for her in a reelection bid, Mamdani said: “I’m focusing on November and I appreciate her support and I appreciate her work.”
“Then why don’t you endorse her?” Cuomo asked.
Mamdani has been the front-runner in the polls since winning the Democratic primary for mayor in June.
What People Are Saying
Hochul, on X last month: “New York City deserves a mayor who will stand up to Donald Trump and make life more affordable for New Yorkers. That’s Zohran Mamdani.”
Mamdani responded to Hochul’s endorsement on X last month: “Thank you Kathy Hochul! I’m grateful for the Governor’s support in unifying our party, her resolve in standing up to Trump, and her focus on making New York affordable. I look forward to the great work we will accomplish together. Our movement is only growing stronger.”
Representative Elise Stefanik, a New York Republican, wrote on X at the time: “As I always said, it was only a matter of time before the Worst Governor in America Kathy Hochul would bend the knee to the Communist Antisemite Zohran Mamdani.”
What Happens Next
The New York City mayoral election is set for November 4. The next debate is scheduled for October 22.
