Gov. Kathy Hochul has made her endorsement of Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani in the 2025 New York City mayoral contest official, providing a lift to his campaign while simultaneously fueling divisions among city voters, particularly within the Jewish community.
Announcing her decision, Hochul openly addressed her policy disagreements with the 33-year-old Democrat representing Queens. “We differ on several points, and I understand that,” she commented, highlighting that their exchanges have been direct and occasionally contentious. However, Hochul commended Mamdani as “committed to making New York more affordable.”
Mamdani Divides Jewish Electorate
Hochul’s statement also touched on worries expressed by Jewish voters, who remain split on supporting Mamdani. “We had an important conversation about countering antisemitism without hesitation,” Hochul noted, while referencing Mamdani’s dialogue with Jewish leaders.
Nonetheless, skepticism lingers. Sara Forman, the executive director of New York Solidarity Network, voiced opposition to the endorsement. “We cannot stand behind her support for Zohran Mamdani, whose views differ from ours,” she stated.
A survey released in July by that organization found just above a third of Jewish voters responsibly backed Mamdani, revealing sharp contrasts between different religious groups and age ranges. The poll found reform and younger Jewish voters largely approved, while orthodox and senior Jews strongly objected.
Conversely, progressive Jewish advocates praised Hochul’s endorsement. Alicia Singham Goodwin, who is the political director at Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, argued: “Zohran is energizing and earning broad support among New Yorkers, including many in the Jewish community.”
Concerns Extend to Economy and Safety
Apart from religious divisions, Mamdani’s approaches to business and public safety remain under scrutiny. Hochul emphasized the importance of New York as a global business hub and said she impressed upon Mamdani that police must have the resources to keep the city’s streets and transit safe.
While significant business leaders are reserving judgment, labor groups back Mamdani strongly. 32BJ SEIU President Manny Pastreich expressed excitement about Hochul’s support: “United, we can proceed to improve affordability across New York.”
With backing from Hochul, Mamdani enters the last phase of the campaign with establishment support but now faces closer examination from centrists and the business community.
