Jay Jacobs Re-elected as New York State Democratic Party Chair
On Thursday, Jay Jacobs was re-elected as chairman of the New York State Democratic Party, even after he chose not to support Zohran Mamdani in the mayoral race last year.
Jacobs received 82% of the votes cast by party committee members. Caitlin Ogden, chair of the Otsego County Democratic Party, garnered 14%, while 4% abstained from voting.
Gov. Kathy Hochul endorsed Jacobs for another term, although some party insiders are looking to push him out, primarily due to his lack of support for Mamdani.
Jacobs is known for his strong pro-Israel stance, in stark contrast to Mamdani, who has publicly criticized Israel and called for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
During the mayoral campaign, Jacobs remarked, “Mr. Mamdani and I agree that income inequality is a significant issue in America. However, we have fundamentally different approaches to addressing it.”
He added, “Moreover, I’ve told him directly that I disagree with his views on Israel, as well as certain key policies.”
As the Nassau County Democratic leader, Jacobs is seen as a moderate in a party that’s increasingly veering left. This shift is highlighted by the success of democratic socialists, including Mamdani and candidates like Darializa Avila Chevalier and Claire Valdez.
Jacobs has previously held the state chairman position in two separate terms over the past decade under various governors, including David Paterson, Andrew Cuomo, and now Hochul. His latest victory means he will continue for another two years.
In his remarks following the party committee meeting in Tarrytown, Jacobs expressed, “I am honored to be re-elected as New York State Democratic Party Chairman and am eager to build on the successes we have achieved in electing Democrats across the board.”
He emphasized, “Our party is diverse and united, with candidates throughout the state ready to confront Donald Trump’s attacks and advocate for New York families. I am excited about collaborating with the incredible leaders who will guide us to victory in November.”
