Gov. Kathy Hochul teased new taxes to fund Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s universal childcare program Friday — as she faces rising pressure from his lefty allies to hike levies in the wake of Democrats’ midterm domination.
“When we have a severe need for something extraordinary, I am willing to do what has to happen,” Hochul — fresh off her re-election win — told reporters from the Somos political conference in Puerto Rico.
“I think you’ll see a thoughtful approach to this, it is not ideological, it’s pragmatic and what we need to do is deliver for the people to put us in office,” she continued — just moments after Mamdani, who stood grinning at her side — said he still stood firm in his “tax the rich” beliefs.
“I’ve always been clear about where I stand, I continue to hold those positions, and I’m also looking forward to continuing a productive working relationship with our governor to deliver for working people,” the mustachioed mayor said when asked about raising taxes on the wealthy.
The political odd couple formed an alliance on the campaign trail that proved fruitful for Hochul, a moderate Democrat who cruised to a crushing 20-point victory over Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman Tuesday.
But Hochul continued to dance around the issue of potential new taxes next year — as she did on the campaign trail as Mamdani and his Democratic Socialists of America cronies called for hikes.
“We’ll be announcing our path forward,” she said. “Stay tuned for the state of the state, 2027.”
Reporters specifically asked Hochul about continued state cash for the city’s universal childcare program, which is budgeted until 2028 — asking how she would ensure it remains funded beyond that.
She suggested she was open to adding taxes to fill the gap so Mamdani’s program could be sustained “for generations to come.”
“I want to make sure that we have a path forward that is sustainable. We fully fund childcare, and this is how we work to provide for generations to come,” Hochul said.
When asked for further specifics, she demurred, saying, “there’s no answers on it yet,” but hinting they may be coming soon.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
