Kathy Hochul addresses reports of Mayor Mamdani’s influencer network

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declined to comment on allegations regarding a secret network of influencers used by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The controversy follows a report by the Columbia Journalism Review detailing how the Mamdani administration reportedly utilized approximately 200 influencers to disseminate City Hall talking points through undisclosed channels.

Reporters questioned Hochul on whether legislation should require the disclosure of government-influencer relationships. Hochul stated she was unaware of any such requirements and noted, “This is a new development. I don’t have an answer because we’ve not had a chance to process this.” She further remarked that she was focused on addressing antisemitism and other immediate crises.

The administration has faced criticism for using Signal, a messaging app with auto-delete features, to communicate with these influencers. Critics argue this practice may violate transparency laws regarding the retention of public records. While Hochul noted her understanding is that the influencers are not being paid, the report suggests the existence of undisclosed paid campaigns for city agencies.