It was a kiss cam moment that captured attention online, and now a House Republican is using it to make a political point.
Elise Stefanik, a Republican from New York, referenced a viral incident at a Coldplay concert involving CEO Andy Byron and HR director Christine Cabot, which led to accusations surrounding New York City mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul.
Stefanik commented, “Commie Mamdani holding [Gov. Kathy Hochul] will be campaigning for reelection in 2026,” via social media.
Fox News Digital reached out to both Hochul and Mamdani’s offices for their thoughts on the matter.
While Stefanik has shown interest in running for the New York Governor’s position, she hasn’t officially announced her candidacy yet. She was previously the third highest-ranking Republican in House GOP leadership but was passed over for a nomination as Trump’s ambassador. After a withdrawal of that nomination, she resumed her leadership role.
Other Republicans, such as Congressman Mike Lawler, are also contemplating a run against Hochul. Unlike Stefanik, Lawler has won in a typical Democratic area but represents a predominantly Republican section in upstate New York.
However, both candidates will face a tough challenge against Hochul, especially with recent polls indicating she leads potential rivals by at least 20 points.
Meanwhile, Mamdani has recently engaged with figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders in Washington, D.C., and is now in New York to garner support from prominent leaders such as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in his effort to unseat current Mayor Eric Adams.
