Hochul and Blakeman Clash on Antisemitism Allegations

New York Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul did not defend New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani during a gubernatorial debate. Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman accused Mamdani of being antisemitic, anti-Christian, and un-American.

Blakeman criticized Mamdani for signing an executive order that he claimed diluted the definition of antisemitism. He also pointed out Hochul’s support for Mamdani, stating the mayor did not respect American values by promoting collectivism and ignoring religious events.

Hochul shifted the debate focus by referring to comments from a New York Times report about a private meeting related to NYPD responses to potential violent protests against the Jewish community. Blakeman contested her portrayal of the meeting while praising Mamdani for appointing and retaining Jessica Tisch as NYPD commissioner. The moderator then asked to proceed to another topic.

“Antisemitism is on the rise, and it’s occurred under your watch, and Zohran Mamdani is fueling it,” Blakeman added during the debate.

Republicans quickly highlighted the debate exchange on social media, accusing Hochul of aligning with an antisemitic and anti-Christian figure. Kristin Cianci, from the Republican National Committee, and the New York Republican Party expressed disdain for Hochul’s association with Mamdani.

On the following day, a reporter questioned Hochul about why she didn’t defend Mamdani. Hochul dismissed the accusations as “absurd” and emphasized her partnership with the mayor.

The debate covered several other topics, including former President Donald Trump, a recent ICE-involved shooting, energy prices, and inflation. With Democrats outnumbering Republicans in New York, polling in September showed Blakeman closing the gap against Hochul to single digits. According to a Siena College poll, Hochul had 50% support among likely voters compared to Blakeman’s 41%.

Mamdani’s support did impact Hochul positively in her re-election campaign, with voters favoring his endorsement by a 50%-30% margin.

Reporting by Andrew Mark Miller of Fox News Digital. Follow him on Twitter @andymarkmiller or send tips to [email protected].