New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran...

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani speak to reporters at police headquarters in Manhattan last month. Credit: AP / Yuki Iwamura

Mayor Zohran Mamdani has endorsed Gov. Kathy Hochul for reelection, writing that despite their "real disagreements" in areas such as taxing the rich, she is a competent leader who believes in “transformation” and understands “hope is inspired by a vision, and sustained by change.”

In an essay published Thursday in the liberal magazine The Nation, Mamdani cites Hochul's role in helping to deliver on the beginnings of his signature campaign pledge of free universal child care, their positive working relationship, and her defense of immigrants against federal deportation efforts.

"The temptation is to allow difference to turn into distrust," Mamdani wrote. "But over the course of our relationship, I have come to trust Governor Hochul as someone willing to engage in an honest dialogue that leads to results."

Mamdani's endorsement comes nearly four months after he declined during a mayoral debate in October to endorse her, despite Hochul having endorsed his mayoral bid a month earlier.

But, he wrote Thursday, Hochul has been key in delivering results as the two have worked together, and it's important to "disagree honestly while still delivering for the people we serve."

"The Governor and I do not agree on everything. We have real differences, particularly when it comes to taxation of the wealthiest, at a moment defined by profound income inequality. I continue to believe that the wealthiest among us can afford to pay just a little bit more," he wrote.

In a statement, the Hochul campaign said: “From day one, my focus has been on delivering for New York families, making our state a place where kids can grow up safe and where families have every opportunity to thrive. Mayor Mamdani understands that we need to build a New York that everyone can afford. I’m grateful for his partnership in finally bringing universal child care to New York, and I know that he’ll stand strong alongside me as we fight against Donald Trump’s attacks on this state.”

Mamdani did not directly answer a reporter's question Thursday asking whether, by endorsing Hochul without securing a promise from her to raise taxes on the wealthy and big corporations as he wants, he has lost his leverage. He cited her child care funding commitment.

"I think this is an endorsement that reflects a sincere belief in the partnership that we have been building," Mamdani said. 

State Republicans aren't convinced.

In an email, the party ridiculed the endorsement and said it is a reason to vote for Republicans, including the likely nominee, Bruce Blakeman, the Nassau County executive.

"The radical left's takeover of New York Democrats is complete. What new taxes and radical proposals did Kathy Hochul promise Zohran Mamdani in exchange for his support?" spokesman David Laska wrote. "New Yorkers who want a check on Mamdani and Hochul's radicalism have one choice: elect Bruce Blakeman Governor in November and vote Republican at all levels of government."

One dead in massive Bellmore house fire ... AI in schools ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV Credit: Newsday

One dead in massive Bellmore house fire ... AI in schools ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV

One dead in massive Bellmore house fire ... AI in schools ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV Credit: Newsday

One dead in massive Bellmore house fire ... AI in schools ... Get the latest news and more great videos at NewsdayTV

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