In a surprising political dynamic, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has established a working relationship with former President Donald Trump, differing from the tensions seen between Trump and other Democratic leaders. This connection has been particularly evident as Trump recently backed down from deploying the National Guard to Chicago after Hochul’s intervention. Sources suggest that Hochul’s willingness to negotiate and Trump’s perception of her as a non-threatening figure contribute to their cooperation.
The two leaders maintain regular communication, a contrast to the often adversarial interactions Trump has with other Democratic governors. Trump, who has deep ties to New York, still owns several properties in the city, including a notable gold-plated triplex on Fifth Avenue. During a livestreamed Cabinet meeting, the former president remarked on his favorable rapport with Hochul, reinforcing the notion that their interactions are generally cordial.
However, this relationship faces new challenges following Hochul’s endorsement of state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City. Trump publicly criticized the endorsement, calling it “a rather shocking development, and a very bad one.” He expressed concerns about Mamdani’s progressive agenda, stating, “Washington will be watching this situation very closely.”
In a guest essay for the New York Times, Hochul asserted that both she and Mamdani would confront Trump’s “extreme agenda” with urgency and conviction. She emphasized the importance of resisting Trump’s influence over the city, describing him as wanting to control it “like the king he wants to be.”
The outcome of the mayoral race could significantly impact Hochul’s relationship with Trump. Recently, Trump commented that Hochul’s public criticisms contrast with their private discussions, saying, “She treats me very much nicer to my face than she does to the public.” Hochul has indicated her intention to work with Trump when necessary, and there have been instances of successful negotiations between their administrations.
Notably, Trump agreed to resume the state-backed construction of an offshore wind farm following discussions with Hochul. The state’s Department of Environmental Conservation is currently reviewing a natural gas pipeline project that had previously been canceled. Despite some collaborative efforts, Hochul has resisted Trump’s attempts to dismantle the state’s congestion pricing program, which launched in January. Nonetheless, she permitted the federal government to take over the long-stalled reconstruction of Manhattan’s Penn Station.
Political analysts suggest that Hochul’s pragmatic approach resonates with Trump. Morgan Hook, a Democratic strategist, noted, “If you take a more pragmatic approach with the guy… you cut the deals you can cut.” Kathryn Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City, highlighted that Hochul’s lack of presidential aspirations distinguishes her from other governors, making her relationship with Trump less confrontational.
Former U.S. Representative Tom Reynolds, a Republican from suburban Buffalo, emphasized the importance of their regular communication, stating, “Generals talk to generals.” In contrast, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has expressed caution in engaging with Trump, fearing that private conversations could be used against him.
Reynolds also noted that Trump’s New York roots contribute to his understanding of the state’s political landscape. Hochul’s spokesperson, Jen Goodman, stated that the governor is open to collaborating with anyone prioritizing New York’s interests. However, she added, “she will not stand by as President Trump attacks our state’s sovereignty, threatens our fundamental rights, and disregards the values that define us as New Yorkers.”
The recent tensions surrounding labor negotiations further illustrate the complexities of Hochul’s relationship with Trump. Last week, she accused him of “screwing” New York by allowing Long Island Rail Road workers to abandon negotiations, setting the stage for a potential strike.
As the political landscape evolves, the future of Hochul and Trump’s alliance remains uncertain, particularly in light of the upcoming mayoral election and the differing political agendas at play. The dynamics of their relationship will be closely monitored as both leaders navigate their respective challenges in New York.
