Hochul says Zohran Mamdani should ‘apologize’ to cops for calling NYPD ‘racist’ and a ‘major threat to public safety’

ALBANY – Governor Kathy Hochul has called on Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic mayoral candidate, to apologize for his previous comments labeling the NYPD as “racist.” In her strongest rebuke yet, Hochul stated that an apology is necessary for Mamdani’s controversial remarks.

Mamdani had made the statement in a social media post in June 2020, amidst nationwide protests against police brutality following the killing of George Floyd. He referred to the NYPD as “racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety.” However, in a recent interview with The New York Times, Mamdani expressed a willingness to apologize to the police for his past comments.

Despite not yet issuing the promised apology, Hochul commended Mamdani for acknowledging the need to earn the respect of the NYPD. She stood in front of a SWAT vehicle, highlighting state funding for local law enforcement agencies, and emphasized her respect for the police force.

Mamdani, who emerged as the frontrunner in the mayoral race after the Democratic primary, has distanced himself from his previous “defund the police” stance. He has attempted to shift his focus towards taxing the rich, healthcare, affordable housing, and building a socialist New York.

Hochul, who is seeking re-election next year, has refrained from endorsing Mamdani or his policy proposals, particularly his plan to raise income taxes on wealthy New Yorkers. She reiterated her stance on not increasing income taxes on high-net-worth individuals in a recent interview.

Mayor Eric Adams, a former police captain, criticized Mamdani’s apology as insufficient, emphasizing the need for concrete actions to address public safety concerns. Political analysts believe that Hochul’s call for an apology from Mamdani is a strategic move to avoid alienating law enforcement and conservative voters in the upcoming election.

As the political landscape evolves, Hochul aims to position herself as a moderate voice, balancing the demands of progressive and conservative factions. With the mayoral race heating up, the dynamics between candidates and their policy positions will continue to shape the political discourse in New York City.