Kathy Hochul backs Jay Jacobs for NY Democratic Chair

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced her support for the reelection of State Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs. Hochul stated that Jacobs will be reelected ‘no problem’ and emphasized his role as her chairman.

Jacobs’ bid for another two-year term comes amid internal party friction. He previously drew criticism from supporters of Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani after declining to endorse him during the 2025 New York City mayoral campaign. Jacobs noted that while he and Mamdani agree on the issue of income disparity, they ‘fundamentally disagree’ on how to address it, adding that he also disagrees with Mamdani’s views on Israel.

Jacobs, who also leads the Nassau County Democratic Party, is viewed as a moderate voice for the party in suburban and upstate battleground districts. He faces a challenge from Otsego County Democratic leader Caitlin Ogden. The State Democratic Committee is scheduled to vote on his leadership on October 1.