NYC Mayor Mamdani to Endorse Governor Hochul for Re-Election

Endorsement could boost Hochul's progressive credentials ahead of Democratic convention

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:47pm

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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is expected to endorse Governor Kathy Hochul for re-election this week, according to sources familiar with the mayor's plans. The endorsement could provide a needed boost of progressive energy to Hochul's campaign and further cement the once-unlikely partnership between the state's two most powerful Democratic figures.

Why it matters

Mamdani's endorsement would be a significant political development, as the mayor and governor have had a contentious relationship in the past. However, they have forged an unlikely alliance over the past year, with Hochul even endorsing Mamdani's mayoral campaign. The mayor's backing could help shore up Hochul's support among progressives and city voters, two key Democratic constituencies.

The details

Mamdani is expected to announce his endorsement of Hochul as soon as Thursday in an op-ed, according to sources. The endorsement would be a blow to Hochul's primary challenger, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, who has modeled his campaign in part on Mamdani's populist economic platform. However, Hochul's close association with the democratic socialist mayor could also pose risks in the general election, as her Republican opponent is likely to try to tie her to Mamdani's more polarizing policy positions.

  • Mamdani is expected to endorse Hochul ahead of the Democratic Party's nominating convention on Friday, February 7, 2026.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who was previously a thorn in Governor Hochul's side as a state legislator but has since forged an unlikely partnership with the governor.

Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York, who is seeking re-election and has secured the endorsement of the progressive New York City mayor.

Antonio Delgado

The lieutenant governor of New York, who is running against Hochul in the Democratic primary and has partly modeled his campaign on Mamdani's populist economic platform.

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What’s next

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