Earlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on NY1’s “Inside City Hall” for an interview with Ayana Harry. Speaking from Washington D.C., the Governor discussed several topics including her recent interactions with the President, immigration enforcement, federal infrastructure funding, state budget issues, and preparations for an upcoming winter storm.
Governor Hochul addressed questions about whether she had met with the President during her visit to Washington. She clarified that while she did not have a one-on-one conversation, she attended a meeting with other governors where New York-specific issues were discussed. According to Hochul, “One is, when he was asked the question, ‘What is the lesson you learned from what happened in Minneapolis?’ He said, ‘We’re only going to go places where we’re welcome, where they want to have us there.’ And he said, ‘For example, New York. I’ll only go there if Kathy wants me to come to the city.’ So that was actually pretty reassuring, and rather unexpected in that environment…he knows I’ll stand up when I disagree…”
The Governor expressed concern over what she described as a surge in ICE arrests involving individuals who are lawfully present but not committing crimes. She stated: “My job is to keep New Yorkers safe. But what is happening from an agency that’s literally out of control…it is unconscionable; not to mention what happened in Minneapolis with the murder of two U.S. citizens.” Hochul emphasized that she does not plan to request increased ICE or National Guard presence in New York City.
Regarding tensions at this year’s National Governors Association meeting—where two Democratic governors were initially excluded by the White House—Hochul commented: “It was ridiculous…So two governors…were told they’re not welcome at this meeting. So we were all saying, ‘Well we’re not going either…’ But they relented…But unnecessary drama. Just more of the chaos out of Washington.”
On infrastructure funding and specifically the Gateway Tunnel project—which had previously faced threats of losing federal support—Hochul detailed her efforts: “I called the President…and I talked to him Monday night…there are now 1,000 individuals unemployed union members…Within two days, the money was all restored. And I’m so proud that they’re back to work.”
The Governor described her approach toward working with federal officials as pragmatic but assertive: “I decided early on I would make the effort to have a relationship that is productive for the people I represent when I agree with the President or I have to get him to back off of something…” She also mentioned ongoing disputes over funding cuts affecting health care and child care services.
When asked about Mayor Mamdani’s calls for higher taxes on wealthy residents and corporations—a stance supported by some in New York City government—Hochul reiterated her opposition: “No, I’m very firm in this because I understand the frustration out there…” She stressed a focus on economic growth and job creation rather than new tax increases.
Hochul also highlighted cooperation between state and city governments on initiatives like universal child care and recent financial support for New York City’s budget needs: “We’ve supported him with $1.5 billion this week alone…”
Looking ahead to expected severe winter weather over Sunday and Monday next week, Hochul outlined preparations underway across New York State: “As soon as we get the sign [of incoming storms], we start bringing in additional utility crews…snow plows…all emergency vehicles…” She advised residents especially in New York City to plan accordingly due to possible disruptions from snowfall.
The interview concluded with both Ayana Harry and Governor Hochul thanking each other for their time.