Protesters Rally Outside Home of WABC's John Catsimatidis

Demonstrators call for policy changes and criticize wealthy donors' influence in New York politics.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:02pm

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A group of demonstrators gathered outside the Upper East Side home of businessman John Catsimatidis, the owner of WABC radio, to protest economic concerns and call for policy changes from New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The rally, organized by Citizen Action of New York, focused on criticizing the influence of wealthy donors in state politics and urging tougher stances on tax policy.

Why it matters

The protest highlights growing frustration among some New Yorkers over the rising cost of living and perceived unequal influence of the wealthy in state politics. It also demonstrates the willingness of activists to bring their message directly to the doorsteps of prominent figures they see as part of the problem.

The details

Protesters chanted and voiced their concerns outside Catsimatidis' home, where his family lives. In response, Catsimatidis came outside and spoke with members of the crowd in a calm exchange. Both sides acknowledged the real challenges facing New York and the need for improvement, though differences remain over the solutions.

  • The protest took place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

The players

John Catsimatidis

A businessman who owns WABC radio and was the target of the protest outside his home.

Kathy Hochul

The current Governor of New York, whom the protesters are urging to take a tougher stance on wealthy donors and tax policy.

Citizen Action of New York

The organization that organized the protest targeting Catsimatidis' home.

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What they’re saying

“Catsimatidis made clear he is open to solutions and said he supports efforts to improve conditions for New Yorkers, adding that he is on board with taking action—as long as resources are directed to the right places and used effectively.”

— John Catsimatidis, Businessman

The takeaway

This protest highlights the growing divide between some New Yorkers and the wealthy elite, with activists seeking to hold influential figures like Catsimatidis accountable for their perceived role in perpetuating economic inequality and political influence. While the exchange ended with a shared understanding that change is needed, the underlying tensions remain.