NY GOP governor contender Bruce Blakeman rips Kathy Hochul for $1.5B Zohran Mamdani budget 'bailout'

Blakeman accuses Hochul of rewarding Mamdani's endorsement with state funds for NYC

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Republican gubernatorial nominee Bruce Blakeman criticized New York Governor Kathy Hochul for providing $1.5 billion in state funds to help bail out New York City, which is facing a budget shortfall under new Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Blakeman accused Hochul of being beholden to Mamdani, who recently endorsed her re-election bid, and said the money should instead be used to reduce school taxes across the state.

Why it matters

This dispute highlights the ongoing political tensions between New York City and the rest of the state, with suburban and upstate Republicans often accusing Albany of favoring the city at their expense. Blakeman's criticism taps into this sentiment and could resonate with voters outside the five boroughs.

The details

Blakeman said the $1.5 billion in state funds should be used to cut school taxes, not bail out New York City's budget. He accused Hochul of rewarding Mamdani, a Democratic socialist, for endorsing her by funneling money to the city. Hochul defended the partial bailout, saying a strong New York City benefits the entire state.

  • Hochul is set to deliver $1 billion in this fiscal year and another $510 million next year in state funding relief to New York City.

The players

Bruce Blakeman

The Republican gubernatorial nominee who is criticizing Governor Kathy Hochul's decision to provide $1.5 billion in state funds to help bail out New York City.

Kathy Hochul

The incumbent Democratic governor of New York who is providing the $1.5 billion in state funds to help bail out New York City.

Zohran Mamdani

The new Democratic mayor of New York City who is facing a budget shortfall that the state funds are intended to help address.

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What they’re saying

“The timing says it all: Kathy Hochul gets Zohran Mamdani's endorsement, and then New York City gets billions more in taxpayer dollars to pay for Mamdani's migrant program and other wasteful spending.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Republican gubernatorial nominee (nypost.com)

“New Yorkers deserve leadership that respects every community. I will be a governor for all — not just for Zohran Mamdani.”

— Bruce Blakeman, Republican gubernatorial nominee (nypost.com)

“A strong New York City means a stronger New York state. This investment protects services and puts the city on stable financial footing.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York (nypost.com)

What’s next

The dispute between Blakeman and Hochul over the $1.5 billion in state funds for New York City is likely to continue as the gubernatorial election approaches. Voters in suburban and upstate areas will be watching closely to see how this issue plays out.

The takeaway

This clash highlights the ongoing political tensions between New York City and the rest of the state, with Republicans often accusing Democrats of favoring the city at the expense of other regions. The outcome could impact how state resources are allocated and the political dynamics within New York.