Earlier this evening, New York Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on WABC Radio’s “Cats & Cosby” show, where she discussed the holiday season, her work in the state, and recent policy initiatives.
During the conversation with host John Catsimatidis, Governor Hochul spoke about her participation in Hanukkah celebrations and the importance of supporting the Jewish community. She stated, “I did light the Menorah on a very cold night this past week, but it was wonderful to be there and express my solidarity with the Jewish community and also to let them know that we’re going to continue fighting antisemitism and standing up for their rights to express themselves freely and be safe in our city.”
Hochul also expressed excitement about Christmas and spending time with her grandchildren. She said, “I’m very excited about Christmas, it’s just around the corner. We have two little granddaughters that’ll be coming to visit me… I’m looking forward to seeing it through the eyes of children, which always makes it so special.” The governor mentioned plans to distribute toys in Brooklyn for children in need and encouraged listeners to contribute during the holiday season.
Reflecting on religious traditions and values, Hochul shared: “I was raised as a Catholic, I appreciate and respect all religions and their traditions… this is a time we celebrate the birth of Jesus and we honor that. And just reminding everybody of the teachings of Jesus Christ through my life right now says I’m responsible for taking care of other people and fighting for them and protecting them.”
The conversation turned toward Cardinal Dolan’s retirement. Governor Hochul commented: “I just spoke with him yesterday and conveyed a similar feeling. He let me know he’s not going anywhere, he wants to be very involved in the community still — he has a lot more to give. And I said, ‘I’ll take you up on that, you’ve been a true leader.’ … He is a very generous, kind person and he will be sorely missed.”
Governor Hochul highlighted two issues she is particularly proud of: implementing a ban on cell phones in schools across New York State and efforts to reduce subway crime. Regarding the cell phone policy launched in September after gaining support from lawmakers and educators statewide, she said: “We had to go after a lot of people who just said, ‘No, we don’t want to be told what to do.’ And I don’t mind taking on a fight when I’m fighting for especially our children… I am so proud that after going through those battles… we just launched it in September — and John I could not have foreseen such immediate results ever.” She described positive feedback from teachers reporting improved learning environments as students interact more directly with each other rather than being absorbed by their devices.
Hochul noted changes observed since enacting this policy: “Kids are playing with each other… they’re playing chess and cards with people that they never spoke to in their entire lives — they’ve been classmates for years because the cell phone took the place of human interaction.” She added that one student told her: “‘You have to save us from ourselves, we can’t be the ones who stop.’ And as I said, as a parent… I’m going to step right into that fight…”
Host John Catsimatidis thanked Governor Hochul for joining him on air ahead of his own appearance at an event scheduled for Tuesday night.
