Gillibrand endorses Hochul in bid for full term as New York governor

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) announced her endorsement of New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) on Monday in her bid for a full term as governor. 

“I’m so proud to announce that I’m endorsing Kathy Hochul for a full term serving the people of New York as governor,” Gillibrand posted in a video on Twitter.

“I’ve worked with Kathy for many years, and here’s what I know: She’s a proven leader with the know-how, work ethic and passion that we need, and she’ll continue to deliver results for New Yorkers in every community,” she added. 

Hochul is running for her first full term as governor after she gained power due to former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s (D) resignation amid sexual harassment allegations. 

Hochul is the first woman to be the governor of New York and is facing a primary challenge from Jumaane Williams, who has been endorsed by the state’s Working Families Party. New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) also launched a bit for the governor’s office but bowed out in December. 

“From making childcare more affordable to expanding paid family leave to defending reproductive rights, Kathy will always fight to level the playing field for working families across the state,” Gillibrand said. “I’m proud to call her governor, and I hope you’ll join me in supporting her campaign.”

Back in January, Hochul had raised $21.6 million for her reelection bid and has been leading in polls against her primary challenger.