Hochul Remarks on Netanyahu’s Election Impact

New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed on Tuesday that her role would become “a lot easier” if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were to lose his position. She was responding to a question from Politico Magazine about how much simpler her job would be if Netanyahu were not leading Israel.

“A lot easier,” Hochul stated, highlighting her responsibility as she represents the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. She noted the current challenges faced by her constituents, pointing out concerns about rising antisemitism. “I take that personally, because I represent everyone. I visited Israel shortly after October 7 and witnessed significant pain there,” she shared, adding that she advised Israeli leaders not to overreact in their responses.

The election in Israel on Tuesday marked the first since the devastating attacks on October 7, coinciding closely with the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, which include Hochul’s race for reelection as New York’s governor.

Hochul continued, “The world stands with you against the brutal assault from Hamas on innocent Israelis. But an overreach could shift that perspective.” She also conveyed her belief that it isn’t in Netanyahu’s “interest” to support the establishment of a secure Palestinian state.

Hochul’s remarks echo sentiments shared by other prominent New York Democrats, including New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has been particularly vocal against Netanyahu, branding him “the architect of horrific genocide against Palestinians.” During this politically charged time, Hochul is preparing for her own election in November, where a recent poll showed her leading her Republican opponent Bruce Blakeman by 14 points, at 54% to 40%.

Hochul emphasized the importance of strong leadership that prioritizes Israel’s security while also striving for a safe Palestinian state, which she believes is feasible. However, she suggested Netanyahu’s presence as an obstacle to progress in that direction.

In an interview with Spectrum News NY1, when asked about the potential ease of her responsibilities if Netanyahu were no longer in power, Hochul replied, “That’s certainly up to the voters of Israel. They can choose their leader. My response was simply to a direct question.” She acknowledged her belief that her job would indeed be simpler without Netanyahu as Israel’s leader.

The election held on Tuesday was a significant test for Netanyahu’s political future, coming after the tragic Hamas-led massacre. As millions of Israelis exercised their vote, the turnout reached about 77.7%, one of the highest levels seen this century, according to Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon. He urged U.S. elected officials to respect Israel’s democratic choices, just as Israel respects the democratic processes of the United States.

As of Wednesday morning, early results indicated that Netanyahu’s coalition was leading, with his bloc projected to secure 54 of the Knesset’s 120 seats, compared to 47 for the main opposition and 19 for Arab parties.