Democrat Kathy Hochul has served as Lieutenant Governor since 2015. This year she is facing a primary challenge for that post.
Brooklyn Councilman Jumaane Williams will be on the ballot, seeking the Democratic line. Rumors did surface that Hochul might consider a run for the state's 27th Congressional District, but she states that she is committed to a return to working with the Governor. Hochul believes her constructive relationship with Cuomo is important to the state.
"I served as a member of Congress. I know first hand what dysfunctional government looks like. I know what gridlock looks like, and the voters and the people of the state of New York deserve to have a partnership. New York State is a large entity. It's very complicated, and the Governor and I are making great accomplishments coming together for affordable health care, free college education, increases in minimum wage. We got this done together."
A Williams win would create an interesting atmosphere in Albany, as he has been a critic of Cuomo. Williams argues that the Lieutenant Governor's office holds forgotten powers that he believes need to be employed.
He has received endorsements from other downstate officials.
