New York Gov. Kathy Hochul delivered her 2026 State of the State address Tuesday, outlining an ambitious agenda focused on affordability, public safety, housing, and resistance to federal policy decisions as she heads into an election year.
Hochul placed cost-of-living issues front and center, proposing a series of proposals designed to ease financial burdens for families across the state. She spotlighted plans to expand universal child care and pre-K, lower utility and auto insurance costs, and bolster affordable housing by cutting regulatory barriers — part of what she described as a broader push to make life more affordable for New Yorkers.
In her speech, Hochul also defended her public safety record and outlined investments in law enforcement and crime reduction, including enhanced subway safety initiatives and expanded mental health response teams.
The governor criticized federal policies, saying certain U.S. actions are driving up costs for goods and energy, and called for state protections to safeguard New Yorkers’ rights and safety.
Hochul’s address comes as she seeks to balance concerns from moderates and progressives within her own party while staking out positions ahead of the 2026 election cycle.
Environmental issues were another focus. Hochul reaffirmed investments in clean water projects, natural resource protection, and the Environmental Protection Fund, emphasizing resilience against extreme weather events and climate impacts. However, climate and environmental advocacy groups, including local Finger Lakes organizations, have criticized the state for permitting decisions they say threaten waterways like Seneca Lake, arguing the governor’s commitments must be backed by stronger regulatory action.
Noteworthy moments included social spending proposals, heightened enforcement around public safety, and renewed environmental protections — all of which have drawn attention from lawmakers and advocacy groups.
Read or watch the full 2026 State of the State address here.
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