New York gets its first-ever woman governor. Ironically, the state’s previous governor, Andrew Cuomo was revoked from office for sexual harassment on August 10, 2021, after almost ten years of service. Lt. Gov. Kathleen “Kathy” C. Hochul will soon be sworn in. Here are four interesting things about her.
Over a decade long experience in politics
Kathy Hochul has strong and long experience in the field of politics. She was first elected for office on Hamburg’s town board and served there for 14 years. Hochul was also appointed as the deputy county clerk in 2003 for Erie County. She also won a congressional seat in the 2011 elections. During her time in Congress, she also served on the Homeland security and House Armed Services committees. Finally, in 2014, she ran alongside Cuomo.
Political experience has a strong bond
The future governor’s long experience in politics has a strong bond. She got her first taste in politics from her summer job on Senator Patrick Moynihan’s campaign. She also interned in political campaigns during college, where she met her spouse. They worked for Sen. Moynihan to protect immigrant rights in the 1980s. Her husband, Bill, was later nominated by President Obama to serve as the Attorney for New York’s Western District. Honcul also left her cushy job as a legal counsel to work as a legal counsel and legislative assistant to Sen. Moynihan.
Kathy Hochul truly bleeds blue
Hochul is a Democrat however, that’s not why she ‘bleeds blue.’ In addition to being a blue-collar Democrat, she is an Irish Catholic from a family of hardworking people. Her parents were active supporters of the civil rights movement and protested the Vietnamese war. They were a great influence on Hochul’s life. Additionally, her father ran his IT firm whereas her mother ran a flower shop. Additionally, Hochul’s mother also co-founded a shelter for survivors of domestic abuse.
Hochul is a master at prioritizing
Her middle-class background and long career taught her one of the few things that help her align with issues she resonates with, just like the people. She has backed issues like affordable child care, paid family leave, safe gun laws, and health care and education. In addition to this, she also stands strong for equality and LGBTQ rights. She also co-founded the Kathleen Mary House along with her mom and aunt in 2006.