Golf - The 2025 Ryder Cup - Bethpage Black Golf Course, Farmingdale, New York, United States - September 24, 2025 New York Governor Kathy Hochul during the opening ceremony IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Dennis Schneidler
(New York, New York) – New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is facing criticism after saying she condemns “both” an anti-Muslim protest and the alleged ISIS-inspired suspects accused of throwing explosive devices outside Gracie Mansion over the weekend.
Speaking to reporters Monday in Albany, Hochul addressed the incident, which authorities have described as an attempted terrorist attack near the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
“We condemn both. Neither belongs in New York,” Hochul said when asked about the attack and the protest that preceded it.
Investigators say two teenagers — 18-year-old Emir Balat and 19-year-old Ibraham Kayumi — have been charged with terrorism after allegedly throwing improvised explosive devices during a protest near Gracie Mansion. Authorities say the suspects were self-radicalized and inspired by ISIS ideology.
The protest where the incident occurred had been organized by far-right activist Jake Lang and focused on opposition to public Muslim prayer events in New York City.
Hochul said she rejects “hate in all of its forms” and blamed both the violence and the protest rhetoric for contributing to the situation.
“I reject the hate that launched this,” the governor said. “I reject the hate that perpetrated this… It’s all abhorrent. It doesn’t belong in our state.”
Her remarks drew pushback from some Republican officials who argued the governor’s comments blurred the distinction between protesters and those accused of carrying out the bombing attempt.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, said leaders should clearly label the attack as terrorism.
“Anyone who throws a bomb is not a protester — they are a terrorist, plain and simple,” Blakeman said in a statement.
State Sen. Steve Chan and Assemblyman Mike Reilly also criticized the response, saying public officials should offer “moral clarity” when addressing acts of terrorism.
Hochul first responded to the incident Sunday, thanking the New York City Police Department for their response and pledging that those responsible would be held accountable.
“There is no place for violence of any kind in our state and those responsible for this cowardly act will be held accountable,” she said.
Authorities continue investigating the attack, which occurred during a series of demonstrations near Gracie Mansion that drew both protesters and counter-protesters. Officials say security has since been increased in the area as the case moves forward in court.
