# New York political tensions involving Zohran Mamdani > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-york-political-tensions-involving-zohran-mamdani > Updated: 2026-09-20T22:12:26.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration has faced scrutiny following reports that it utilized approximately 200 influencers to spread City Hall talking points through undisclosed channels. The controversy involves the use of the Signal messaging app, which critics argue may violate public records retention laws. Governor Kathy Hochul stated she had not yet had a “chance to process” the development. Political tensions involving Mamdani have also surfaced within the New York Democratic Party. State Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs, who is seeking reelection, previously faced criticism from Mamdani’s supporters after declining to endorse him during the 2025 mayoral campaign. Jacobs noted that while he and Mamdani agree on income disparity, they “fundamentally disagree” on how to address it and on views regarding Israel. Governor Hochul has announced her support for Jacobs’ reelection. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-20: Kathy Hochul backs Jay Jacobs for NY Democratic Chair Governor Kathy Hochul is backing New York State Democratic Chairman Jay Jacobs for reelection, despite controversy surrounding his refusal to endorse mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kathy-hochul-backs-jay-jacobs-for-ny-democratic-chair ### 2026-09-08: Kathy Hochul addresses reports of Mayor Mamdani’s influencer network Governor Kathy Hochul declined to address reports that NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani used a secret network of influencers to spread administration talking points via undisclosed channels. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kathy-hochul-addresses-reports-of-mayor-mamdanis-influencer-network --- Cite as: New York political tensions involving Zohran Mamdani. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-york-political-tensions-involving-zohran-mamdani