President Donald Trump criticized terminology in a New York surrogacy bill during a rally in Syracuse. The event supported Republican gubernatorial nominee Bruce Blakeman. Trump’s remarks targeted state legislation changing terms for surrogacy.
Speaking to the crowd at the Oncenter, he mocked New York’s replacement of “mother” and “father” with “gestating parent” and “non-gestating parent.” “You can’t say ‘mother, hi mom!’ It’s ‘hi gestating,’” he said, drawing laughter.
Trump expanded his critique to include Governor Kathy Hochul’s stance on transgender healthcare and women’s sports. The rally also saw former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson join Trump on stage.
“My president,” Tyson said, expressing his happiness to be at the event.
Newsweek reached out to the White House and Governor Hochul’s office for comments outside regular hours.
Key Points
- According to the New York Post, several thousand supporters attended the event.
- Hochul’s office stated the bill does not change views on parental terms.
- Polls placed Hochul 11 points ahead of Blakeman.
Why It Matters
The issue has emerged as an election topic. Republicans argue that Democrats in Albany are disconnected from voters’ concerns. The bill modifies language in parentage proceedings, using terms like “gestating” or “non-gestating” parents and changing “paternity” hearings to “parentage” hearings.
Supporters say this clarifies legal matters involving surrogacy. Critics believe it undermines traditional family roles and increases government control over parenthood.
Blakeman and Hochul’s Reactions
Trump then highlighted Blakeman, the Nassau County executive challenging Hochul. “New York needs to elect Bruce Blakeman,” Trump proclaimed.
Blakeman labeled the measure “insane,” accusing it of taking control from parents and diminishing roles of moms and dads. A spokesperson for Hochul disputed this, stating the bill addresses technical legal issues without altering traditional views.
The response showcases the disagreement. Republicans argue it indicates an ideological shift, while the governor’s office stresses the legal precision intent.
Poll Insights on the Governor’s Race
Blakeman trails Hochul in recent polls. An Emerson College survey placed Hochul 12 points ahead, polling 900 likely voters. It found a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points.
A Marist Poll showed an 11-point lead for Hochul, while Quinnipiac University found a 19-point lead in September. Siena University recorded a nine-point lead for Hochul.
Although the lead varies, Hochul consistently leads. Comparing these polls requires caution. Marist surveyed registered voters; the other three focused on likely voters.