Kathy Hochul
Governor
About
Kathy Hochul became New York's 57th Governor in August 2021 following Andrew Cuomo's resignation, and won a full term in 2022. A Buffalo native, she previously served as Lieutenant Governor, U.S. Representative for NY-26, and Erie County Clerk. Her running mate for 2026 is NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams.
Policy Positions
Housing & Rent
Hochul has pushed for large-scale housing production, proposing a 'Housing Compact' requiring municipalities to meet growth targets. She has faced resistance in the legislature but continues to prioritize zoning reform and new construction to address the affordability crisis.
Climate & Energy
Hochul supports the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) and has invested billions in offshore wind and clean energy. She controversially halted a major offshore wind project in 2023, citing costs, but remains committed to the state's 2040 clean energy goals.
Economy & Jobs
Hochul has focused on workforce development, semiconductor investment, and upstate economic revitalization. She championed the CHIPS Act-related investments to bring semiconductor manufacturing to Central New York.
Public Safety & Crime
Hochul signed legislation modifying New York's bail reform laws in 2022 and 2023, allowing judges more discretion in setting bail for certain crimes. She has positioned herself as supporting both reform and public safety.
Infrastructure & Transit
Hochul has championed the reconstruction of Penn Station and Gateway Tunnel project. She also supported congestion pricing before controversially pausing the MTA program in June 2024, citing economic concerns.
Healthcare
Hochul has supported Medicaid expansion and mental health investment. She has not backed the NY Health Act (single-payer) but has supported incremental expansions of coverage.
Campaign Funding
$23.4M
raised · 2025-2026
Primarily funded by real estate developers, finance and banking interests, and the healthcare industry, with relatively few small-dollar contributions.
2 financial controversies documented.
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