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NY Gov. Hochul Faces Backlash Over Lt. Gov Pick
Assemblyman Eichenstein: 'What Alternative Do We Have?'
Published on Feb. 6, 2026
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New York Governor Kathy Hochul's selection of former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams as her running mate for lieutenant governor has stirred backlash within the Democratic party, with concerns raised by Jewish leaders, labor groups, and other party insiders over Adams's record on issues like Israel and law enforcement.
Why it matters
Hochul's choice of running mate is a crucial decision as she faces a primary challenge from her estranged lieutenant governor, Antonio Delgado, whose running mate is progressive activist India Walton. The selection of Adams could alienate key voting blocs that Hochul needs to secure reelection.
The details
Hochul announced Adams as her pick, calling the Queens lawmaker a 'fighter' prepared to take on President Trump's administration. But the choice has drawn criticism, with some Democratic operatives and community leaders questioning whether Adams will energize voters or instead inspire a negative reaction. Concerns have emerged from Jewish political circles over Adams's record on Israel and antisemitism, as well as from law enforcement and corrections unions who opposed measures she backed as City Council speaker.
- Hochul announced Adams as her running mate on February 6, 2026.
- Adams previously served as New York City Council Speaker.
The players
Kathy Hochul
The current Governor of New York who selected Adrienne Adams as her running mate for lieutenant governor.
Adrienne Adams
The former New York City Council Speaker who Hochul selected as her running mate for lieutenant governor.
Antonio Delgado
Hochul's estranged lieutenant governor who is now running against her in the Democratic primary, with progressive activist India Walton as his running mate.
Simcha Eichenstein
A New York State Assemblyman who represents heavily Jewish neighborhoods in Brooklyn and plans to back both Hochul and Adams.
Bruce Blakeman
The Republican nominee for New York governor who has yet to announce his own running mate.
What they’re saying
“What's the alternative? Antonio Delgado and India Walton? Thanks but no thanks.”
— Simcha Eichenstein, New York State Assemblyman (theyeshivaworld.com)
What’s next
Hochul's selection of Adams as her running mate will be closely watched as she faces a primary challenge from Delgado, whose running mate is the progressive activist Walton.
The takeaway
Hochul's choice of Adams as her lieutenant governor pick has already stirred controversy within the Democratic party, raising concerns from Jewish leaders, law enforcement unions, and other key constituencies that could complicate her reelection efforts.
