Blakeman Accuses Hochul of Uber Collusion

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman has alleged that Governor Kathy Hochul is collaborating with ride-hailing company Uber to secure her re-election.

Uber has invested $8 million into a super PAC called Citizens for Affordable Rates, which is backing Hochul’s initiative to reduce New York’s high auto insurance costs.

“Kathy Hochul has essentially sold herself to Uber’s political funding, and New Yorkers are bearing the consequences,” Blakeman told the Post.

“She reduced insurance minimums, weakened protections for aggressive and negligent Uber drivers, all putting public safety at risk. When I become governor, the influence of Uber over Albany will end. I will prioritize the safety of New Yorkers, not corporate interests,” stated the Nassau County executive.

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has contributed $48,000 to Hochul’s campaign since 2022, including $38,000 during the current election cycle, as per state election records.

Hochul’s campaign appeared taken aback by Blakeman’s accusations regarding Uber’s support.

“While Gov. Hochul is focused on lowering auto insurance costs and making substantial investments in public safety, Bruce Blakeman has allowed violent crime in his county to reach a decade high, created his own militia, and coordinated with Donald Trump to increase costs,” remarked campaign spokesman Ryan Radulowacki.

An Uber representative also responded to Blakeman’s remarks.

“As New Yorkers struggle with rising insurance premiums, Mr. Blakeman continues to prioritize the interests of his legal allies,” said Uber spokesman Josh Gold.

“More fraud, escalating premiums, larger payments – and the public ends up footing the bill.”

Hochul’s situation is complicated by the fact that some Democratic lawmakers and the influential trial lawyer lobby are opposing her plan to reform auto insurance, which includes tackling fraudulent activities like staged accidents and excessive litigation.

What makes this exchange stand out is that Blakeman is currently trailing Hochul by a significant margin in independent polls.

However, a recent survey from Blakeman’s camp indicates he is only nine points behind and gaining traction.

Election records show Hochul’s campaign has raised $20.18 million compared to Blakeman’s $1.6 million, highlighting a considerable fundraising advantage for her.

Yet, Hochul is facing her own challenges.

She is currently embroiled in difficult negotiations with the state Legislature over a new budget. A spending proposal is anticipated to be revealed on Wednesday, but discussions are expected to stretch on for weeks.

New York City’s progressive Mayor Zoran Mamdani and fellow Democrats are urging Hochul to implement tax increases to cover the city’s multimillion-dollar budget deficit, but the election-sensitive governor is being cautious about taking that step.