Gov Hochul Advises Mayor Mamdani to Focus on NYC Over Israel

New York Governor Kathy Hochul advised New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani in a interview published in August 2026 to focus on local city governance rather than foreign policy regarding Israel, amidst growing division within the Democratic Party over Middle Eastern relations.

Tensions surfaced after Mayor Mamdani called for the federal government to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and labeled him a war criminal. The remarks drew criticism from several local Jewish leaders, who warned the rhetoric could incite violence against the city's Jewish residents.

Addressing the rift during an interview with The New York Times while campaigning for her November reelection, Governor Hochul underscored the importance of delivering on core municipal services and shared policy goals.

"I encourage him to — 'let’s focus on the blocking and tackling of city government,'" said Governor Kathy Hochul, New York Governor.

Hochul emphasized that both city and state leadership share critical objectives, including expanding access to child care, improving bus transit speeds, and increasing housing construction across the state.

"That is where I believe the main focus should be," said Hochul.

The governor reiterated her commitment to protecting local communities against rising bias and harassment targeting religious groups.

"I will throw my body against any antisemitism. I have, and I will," said Hochul.

Aligning herself with moderate party platform history, Hochul framed her administrative philosophy around established Democratic leadership models.

"We take care of people — that’s the FDR, JFK, Bill Clinton, Obama, Biden wing of the party, and that has not changed," said Hochul.

While acknowledging policy differences, Hochul noted that she welcomes the involvement of progressive political wings, contrasting her approach with other party leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Hochul faces Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman in the upcoming gubernatorial election.