New York State Governor Kathy Hochul speaks during a news conference during the first day of a partial U.S. government shutdown in New York City, New York, U.S., October 1, 2025. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid
(Albany, New York) – New York Gov. Kathy Hochul delivered her State of the State address Tuesday, outlining her agenda for 2026 while sharply criticizing federal policies under President Donald Trump, warning they pose economic and social risks to New Yorkers.
Hochul opened by recognizing legislative leaders, statewide officials, and local leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, Attorney General Letitia James, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Framing the address around New York’s history ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Hochul described New Yorkers as resilient and unafraid to confront powerful forces. She said her agenda was shaped by everyday residents she has met across the state, repeating her message that “your family is my fight.”
The governor highlighted what she called progress over the past four years, saying crime is down, communities are safer, and the state secured the most significant housing deal in decades. She also cited expanded child care, capped insulin costs, paid parental leave, and major investments in clean energy and manufacturing.
“From Babylon to Buffalo, New York is rising,” Hochul said, adding that “the state of the state of New York is strong.”
Hochul took direct aim at Trump, blaming tariffs and immigration enforcement policies for driving up costs and harming families. She referenced a recent federal immigration operation in Minneapolis and accused Washington of creating unnecessary chaos.
“We will not bow to a wannabe king,” Hochul said, vowing to defend congestion pricing after what she described as recent threats from the president.
She said New York’s finances remain strong, allowing for new investments without raising taxes, and pointed to minimum wage increases, expanded paid family leave, a child tax credit, and infrastructure projects ranging from Penn Station renovations to subway expansion.
“We built the boat to withstand the storm,” Hochul said, signaling the state would press ahead despite federal uncertainty.
