New York Governor Kathy Hochul affirmed her endorsement of New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, while simultaneously distancing herself from the Democratic Socialists of America. Hochul stated explicitly, “I don’t support them,” despite Mamdani being a card-carrying DSA member.
At a recent political retreat, Hochul addressed concerns from business leaders and donors uneasy about Mamdani’s socialist affiliation, emphasizing that New York City would continue operating within a capitalist framework. “This will still remain a capitalist city,” she said, describing her outreach efforts with the business community as vital to ensuring economic stability under the new administration.
Critics had accused Hochul of aligning with radical elements by backing Mamdani, who ran on a platform of free transit, housing reform and aggressive wealth-taxing policies. Hochul responded by reaffirming that her support was based on Mamdani’s commitments to public safety and affordability—not ideological alignment with socialist principles. “What is doable is the question,” she noted, citing a $3 billion Medicaid shortfall and the need for realistic budgeting.
With the transition team now assembling for the upcoming administration, Hochul’s remarks highlight a broader strategic balancing act: endorsing a rising progressive figure while reassuring moderate and business constituencies concerned about ideological direction.