Mamdani Declines to Endorse Hochul for Re-election, Days After Governor's Backing

Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City Mayor, has refused to endorse Governor Kathy Hochul for her 2026 re-election campaign, just days after Hochul publicly backed Mamdani's mayoral bid. The decision, made public on Monday, September 15, 2025, has sparked immediate political commentary regarding shifts in power within the New York Democratic Party. Mamdani stated his current focus remains squarely on the upcoming November mayoral election.

Governor Hochul had announced her endorsement of Mamdani on Sunday, September 14, through an opinion piece in The New York Times. Despite previous disagreements, Hochul cited shared commitments to affordability and a unified front against former President Donald Trump's policies as reasons for her support. Mamdani, a self-described democratic socialist, secured the mayoral nomination in June 2025, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

When questioned by reporters about reciprocating the endorsement, Mamdani indicated it was "premature" to discuss future political alignments. "My focus is on November, and I’m excited to have the governor’s support in that fight for November," he said, declining to pledge his backing for Hochul's gubernatorial campaign. This apparent snub has drawn swift reactions from political observers and opponents.

Republican Representative Elise Stefanik criticized the development, stating on X, "Even Mamdani refuses to support Kathy Hochul less than 24 hours after she endorsed him!" Political strategists like Hank Sheinkopf suggested the incident illustrates a significant power shift, with Mamdani and the progressive Democratic Socialists of America gaining influence. Another insider noted, "Zohran holds the cards. Hochul needs Mamdani’s turnout operation in New York City to win re-election next year."

The refusal highlights the complex relationship between the moderate Governor and the ascendant progressive wing of the party. Mamdani and Hochul have previously clashed on issues, including Mamdani's strong criticism of some of Hochul's past statements. Mamdani currently holds a substantial lead in mayoral polls, further underscoring the growing leverage of his political movement.