NY Democratic Chair Jay Jacobs Faces Heat After Defying Hochul

Jay Jacobs, the head of New York's Democratic party, is facing pressure to resign after refusing to endorse the Democratic mayoral nominee, Zohran Mamdani. This defiance directly contradicts Governor Kathy Hochul's public support for Mamdani.

<img src="https://static.politico.com/hosted/icon_x_gray.png" alt="Image of X logo">

Hochul's spokesperson stated that she's considering replacing Jacobs, prompting Jacobs to declare he would resign if asked. His opposition stems from disagreements with Mamdani's views on Israel and his affiliation with the Democratic Socialists of America.

Other high-profile Democrats, including Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, have endorsed Mamdani, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries remain hesitant.

Potential Replacements and Past Conflicts

If Jacobs resigns, former City Council Speaker Christine Quinn is the likely interim replacement, potentially becoming the permanent chair after a state committee vote. This isn't Jacobs' first conflict with the party's left wing; in 2021, he also refused to endorse a socialist mayoral candidate.

Other NYC News Highlights

Cooling Tower Bacteria Testing

Following a Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Harlem, City Council Member Lynn Schulman proposed legislation to increase the frequency of cooling tower bacteria testing from every 90 days to every 30 days. The Acting Health Commissioner expressed support for the bill.

School Bathroom Policies

Mayor Eric Adams wants to maintain gender-segregated school locker rooms, opposing policies allowing students to use bathrooms aligning with their gender identity. He cited a letter from the Trump administration threatening funding cuts over this issue, although he claims to not have read it. Adams' position has been criticized by Mamdani as echoing transphobic sentiments.

Cuomo's Mayoral Run

The pro-Andrew Cuomo super PAC, "Fix the City," is launching a six-figure digital ad campaign to support his independent mayoral bid. The ads contrast Cuomo's experience with Mamdani's perceived inexperience, depicting Mamdani as an “activist” rather than a capable leader.

Additional Headlines:

• U.S. attorney investigating Attorney General Tish James for potential mortgage fraud.
• The Adams administration is pressuring community leaders to approve remaining city casino proposals.
• The state’s Catholic conference opposes changes to a tax credit impacting healthcare coverage.
• State lawmakers want to investigate a possible legal violation by charter schools over a pro-charter school rally.