Former Congresswoman Kathy Hochul has been picked by Governor Andrew Cuomo to be New York's next Lieutenant Governor. Cuomo made the announcement with a video played at the state democratic convention on Long Island, Wednesday.
After serving as Erie County Clerk, Hochul was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010 and served one term. She is now an M&T Bank vice president. Erie County Democratic Committee Chairperson Jeremy Zellner is at the party convention. He tells WBFO News he "couldn't be more excited."
“First, I think she’s an asset to the whole ticket statewide. Kathy brings a wealth of knowledge of state government, business, and she’s just a fierce advocate for our western New York community. She’s also fiercely independent so I think she’s going to serve our ticket well,” said Zellner.
Cuomo said Hochul brings added perspective to the campaign as a Western New York resident and this year's only female statewide candidate from a major party.
Democrats will nominate Cuomo and Hochul on Thursday. This fall they face Republican Gubernatorial candidate Rob Astorino, the Westchester County Executive, and his running mate, Chemung County Sheriff Chris Moss.