ALBANY, N.Y. — New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James have signaled strong opposition to President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, with Hochul issuing a list of demands she says are critical for New York’s well-being. The governor’s comments, made in a speech following the election, have sparked controversy, with some critics suggesting her remarks could be seen as political extortion on the incoming administration.
Hochul outlined her priorities, calling on President-elect Trump to restore the full state and local tax (SALT) deduction, a provision eliminated under his previous administration. She also urged Trump to support funding for New York’s transit infrastructure, including the Gateway Tunnel, the Second Avenue Subway extension, and other critical projects for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Hochul emphasized the importance of federal backing for economic initiatives tied to the CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at boosting U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and creating jobs in the state.
“I will work with him or anybody, regardless of party, on these efforts that I know will benefit the state of New York,” Hochul said. “However, if you try to harm New Yorkers or roll back their rights, I will fight you every step of the way.”
In an impassioned address, Hochul called on New Yorkers to remain resilient, invoking the words of football coach Vince Lombardi: “It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up.”
Attorney General Letitia James echoed the governor’s defiant stance, vowing to protect New York’s values and warning that her office is prepared to challenge the Trump administration if it seeks to restrict rights in the state. Addressing recent efforts to protect abortion rights in New York, James thanked advocates and assured New Yorkers that her office would continue to uphold state laws.
“My office has been preparing for several months because we’ve been here before,” James said. “We use the rule of law to fight back.”
James also congratulated Trump on his election victory, while making it clear that any cooperation with his administration would not come at the expense of New York’s principles. Her comments underscored a commitment to defending state policies and protections, particularly in areas of reproductive rights and civil liberties.
The coordinated statements from Hochul and James signal that New York’s leadership is bracing for a contentious relationship with the incoming federal administration. Critics have described Hochul’s list of demands as aggressive, with some suggesting it could be interpreted as political extortion. Supporters, however, argue that the demands reflect essential needs for the state and defend New York’s right to advocate for its interests.
As New York’s leaders prepare for what could be a challenging period, both Hochul and James have made clear their intention to stand firm against any federal actions they view as detrimental to the state’s residents and values.
