New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) is facing mounting criticism for her recent comments about the thousands of people who attended former President Donald Trump’s rally in the Bronx. During an appearance on CNN Thursday evening, Hochul was asked about the upcoming rally and took the opportunity to downplay Trump’s influence in her state. She stated, “I’ll tell you what won’t make a difference at all… that is for Donald Trump to be a ringleader and invite all his clowns to a place like the Bronx. New York will never, ever support Donald Trump for president. We know him better than anyone. This state will go solidly behind Joe Biden for president as it has in the past.”
Hochul continued, emphasizing her confidence in New York’s political leanings: “So, [if] he wants to spend his time doing his made-up, fake rallies and pretending there’s support here, be my guest… Go ahead, spend all the time you want in New York because we will be with Joe Biden.” However, her decision to refer to Trump’s supporters as “clowns” has not gone over well, sparking significant backlash from various quarters.
The rally in the Bronx was notable for several reasons. It marked the first time in over 40 years that a Republican presidential nominee campaigned in the Bronx, a traditionally Democratic stronghold. It was the first rally Trump held in New York State since 2016, making it a significant event for his supporters.
Hochul’s controversial comments come on the heels of another recent gaffe. Earlier this month, she faced criticism for her remarks about technological awareness among young black children in the Bronx. During an event, Hochul claimed there are “young black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is. They don’t know. They don’t know these things.” The statement was widely condemned as out-of-touch and insensitive.
In response to the backlash, Hochul issued a statement to the New York Post, saying, “I misspoke and I regret it. Of course, black children in the Bronx know what computers are — the problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI. That’s why I’ve been focused on increasing economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration.”
Despite her efforts to retract her comments, Hochul’s statements have continued to draw criticism frompolitical opponents and community leaders. Critics argue that her remarks reflect a broader disconnect between the governor and the communities she represents. This incident, combined with her comments about Trump’s rally, has fueled a narrative that Hochul is out of touch with the diverse and complex realities of New York’s population.
As the political climate in New York remains tense, Hochul’s comments and the reactions they’ve elicited are likely to have lasting implications. The governor’s critics see these gaffes as symptomatic of a larger issue, while her supporters argue that her policies and intentions should be the focus. Regardless, Hochul’s ability to navigate this controversy will be crucial as she seeks to maintain her political standing and advance her administration’s goals.