Gov. Kathy Hochul has officially endorsed Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in the 2025 New York City mayoral race, a move that bolsters his campaign but also deepens divides among voters, particularly within the city’s Jewish community.
In announcing her endorsement, Hochul acknowledged the differences between her and the 33-year-old Queens Democrat. “We don’t see eye to eye on everything, and I don’t expect us to,” she said, adding that their conversations have been frank and at times marked by disagreement. Still, she praised Mamdani as “a leader focused on making New York City affordable.”
Hochul’s statement addressed concerns raised by Jewish voters, many of whom remain divided over Mamdani’s candidacy. “We discussed the need to combat the rise of antisemitism urgently and unequivocally,” Hochul said, noting Mamdani’s outreach to Jewish leaders.
Yet some organizations remain skeptical. Sara Forman, executive director of the New York Solidarity Network, criticized the endorsement. “We disagree with her decision to endorse Zohran Mamdani, who does not share those same values,” she said.
A July survey by the group found that just over one-third of Jewish voters supported Mamdani, with significant differences across religious and age groups. Reform Jews and younger voters were more supportive, while Orthodox and older Jewish voters showed strong opposition.
On the other side, progressive Jewish organizations praised Hochul’s move. Alicia Singham Goodwin, political director of Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, called it proof of Mamdani’s growing popularity: “Zohran and his agenda are deeply popular and inspiring to all types of New Yorkers, including Jewish New Yorkers.”
Beyond faith-based divisions, Mamdani’s economic and public safety stances have also raised questions. Hochul stressed the need for New York to remain a hub for global business and said she told Mamdani that police “should have every resource to keep our streets and subways safe.”
While some business groups have withheld judgment, labor allies have lined up behind Mamdani. 32BJ SEIU President Manny Pastreich applauded Hochul’s endorsement, saying, “United, we are able to accomplish much more to make life more affordable for New Yorkers.”
With Hochul’s backing, Mamdani enters the final stretch of the mayoral race buoyed by establishment support, but also facing intensified scrutiny from moderates and business leaders.