During a campaign rally in Yorktown Heights, New York, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman criticized Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul. He accused her of being a ‘puppet’ of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Blakeman claimed that Hochul supports Mamdani’s agenda, failing to adequately address illegal immigration and crime.
According to the New York Post, Blakeman remarked, ‘Kathy Hochul, she was out campaigning with Mamdani this week and I say that’s great. Please take him everywhere you go, Kathy, because I want to remind people that this un-American, antisemite, anti-Christian mayor is running the Democratic Party and Kathy Hochul is nothing more than his puppet.’
The governor and Blakeman had already debated Hochul’s association with Mamdani, which has been a contentious topic. Hochul has been seen campaigning alongside Mamdani, including a recent event in Brooklyn. This alliance occurs as democratic socialists gain more influence in New York politics. Mamdani’s victory last year and the success of his aligned candidates in congressional primaries have furthered this influence.
Blakeman has consistently criticized Hochul and Mamdani concerning public safety. He accused them of not adequately addressing crime in New York City. Earlier in the month, Blakeman described Hochul as the ‘most pro-criminal governor’ during an appearance on the city’s subway system. He also claimed that both leaders fail to provide safety for commuters.
Mamdani responded by accusing Blakeman of ‘bigotry and racism’ after a debate between Hochul and Blakeman. He supported Hochul’s performance during the criticism she received. Mamdani stated that expecting a politician to address every point in a debate with Blakeman was unrealistic.
Meanwhile, Hochul and Mamdani have been focusing on affordability and child care during their campaign. They argue that their policies are designed to reduce costs for working families.
Fox News Digital has reached out for comments from the offices of Hochul and Mamdani. Blakeman, who has secured the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, continues his campaign to unseat Governor Kathy Hochul.