Governor Kathy Hochul visited a senior center in Queens on April 9 to meet with residents and community members, highlighting her focus on affordability and outlining key proposals in the state budget. During her visit, Hochul addressed the challenges faced by seniors, including rising utility costs, car insurance expenses, and limited housing options.
The Governor said that affordability remains a central concern for many New Yorkers. She emphasized her commitment to easing financial burdens by working to put money back into residents’ pockets. “I’m fighting for you as well. I’m fighting for you, sweetheart. You know that. That’s what this is all about. I’m working so hard to try and put money back in your pockets, because I know no matter what you do, it just feels like the bills are getting bigger,” Hochul said.
Hochul also discussed broader issues affecting families across the state such as high child care costs and her administration’s efforts toward universal childcare access in partnership with city officials. “Child care is so wildly expensive now, and I’m working with our Mayor to deliver, for the first time ever, universal childcare,” she said.
The Governor pointed out that recent federal funding cuts have created significant challenges for New York’s budget planning process. She attributed a $10 billion reduction in health care and nutrition program funding to actions taken at the federal level: “They cut over $10 billion in money for health care programs and senior programs and nutrition programs… Thank you Donald Trump and Republicans who enabled you to do that.” Despite these setbacks, Hochul said she remains committed to supporting vulnerable populations through investments such as $750 million directed toward nursing homes and health care facilities.
Addressing public safety concerns was another priority highlighted during her remarks. The Governor stated: “Over $3 billion we’ve spent, and the crime rates are going down my friends… We’re not done. We’re going to keep the fight up.” She concluded by reaffirming her dedication to representing constituents’ interests as budget negotiations continue.
