Hochul Picks Adrienne Adams as Running Mate

The choice means geographical balance with Hochul, a Buffalo native, but both are considered moderates in the Democratic Party.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:07pm

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Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday announced the selection of Adrienne Adams, the former New York City council speaker, as her running mate. If elected, it would be the first time two women held the two top spots simultaneously.

Why it matters

The selection of Adrienne Adams as Hochul's running mate provides geographic and ideological balance to the ticket, as both are considered moderate Democrats. This could help appeal to a broader range of voters in the upcoming primary and general elections.

The details

Hochul, a Buffalo native, and Adams, who represented part of Queens on the City Council, previously ran for mayor, losing in the primary to Zohran Mamdani, who was ultimately elected. The two Democrats will run together in the primary and general election.

  • On Wednesday, Hochul announced the selection of Adrienne Adams as her running mate.

The players

Gov. Kathy Hochul

The current governor of New York.

Adrienne Adams

The former New York City council speaker and Hochul's running mate.

Anthony Delgado

Hochul's current lieutenant governor, who is running against her.

Bruce Blakeman

The Nassau County Executive, who is running against Hochul for governor.

Zohran Mamdani

The candidate who was ultimately elected mayor after Adams lost the primary.

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What they’re saying

“As Donald Trump attacks this state relentlessly and Bruce Blakeman bends the knee before him, I need a fighter in my corner who'll stand strong for New York families. Adrienne Adams is that fighter.”

— Gov. Kathy Hochul (huntingtonnow.com)

What’s next

The two Democrats will run together in the primary and general election. If elected, it would be the first time two women held the two top spots simultaneously.

The takeaway

The selection of Adrienne Adams as Hochul's running mate provides geographic and ideological balance to the ticket, which could help appeal to a broader range of voters in the upcoming elections.