New York politics: Hochul keeps 2028 door open after win

New York Governor Kathy Hochul indicated she would not refuse a 2028 Democratic vice presidential nomination if offered. The comments came days after she secured a second term in office, signaling an interest in a national role while maintaining her focus on state governance.

In an interview with The New York Times, Hochul addressed how she would react to an approach from a presidential candidate. She stated, "I will say this. I didn't get to where I am by slamming doors." Her remarks suggest she is open to joining a ticket, though she emphasized that her current priority is serving New York residents for the next four years.

Hochul won the gubernatorial election held Tuesday against Republican Bruce Blakeman. Associated Press estimates show she captured 59.7% of the vote, while Blakeman received 40.1%. Following the victory, Hochul posted on X on Wednesday, writing that she "will always believe in New York" and that "our best days are ahead."

The governor cited her policy work as a foundation for a larger national profile. She highlighted initiatives on universal child care, noting that the issue has broad appeal. "I want to become a national voice on that issue as well, and how other states can do it," Hochul told The Times. Her office did not respond to a separate request for comment from Fox News Digital.

Isaac Goldberg, a New York-based Democratic strategist, told The Times that Hochul has not yet been central to discussions among nationally prominent party figures. However, he argued that this absence is not a weakness. "Clearly she hasn't been in the discourse with more nationally prominent Democrats around the country, but I wouldn't take that as a disadvantage," he said.

Other potential 2028 candidates include former Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Hochul has previously praised the group of qualified governors in the state. At a March summit, she described the field as the "deepest bench" she had seen in years.

Hochul has also positioned herself against the current administration. In September, she accused the Department of Homeland Security of withholding millions of dollars in counterterrorism funding from New York. In October, she told Politico that she felt "excited" about the prospect of a Democrat-led Congress using investigations to slow President Donald Trump's agenda.