NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — New York’s NAACP president Dr. Hazel Dukes announced Monday she will be supporting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s election campaign next year.
The civil rights activist praised the new governor and noted that she has been an ally in the fight for equality over the years.
“Throughout her life and career, Governor Kathy Hochul has consistently stood up for the voiceless and marginalized in our communities,” Dr. Dukes said. “As an elected official, she has shown an unparalleled ability to listen and govern with compassion. Since becoming governor, Governor Hochul has delivered results for our communities by taking steps to end mass incarceration and signing sweeping criminal justice reform legislation, spending millions to end the gun violence epidemic, and providing rent relief to those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Dukes added that she was “proud” to endorse Hochul for governor.
The NAACP president was a close ally of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and is extremely close with former New York State Sen. Brian Benjamin, who Hochul has selected to serve as lieutenant governor.
“It is a tremendous honor to be endorsed by Dr. Hazel Dukes,” Hochul said. “Dr. Duke’s dedication to lifting the voices of the underrepresented, promoting civil rights, and fighting for the poor has made her a hero both here in New York and across the country.”
“We have worked together for years in the pursuit of social justice and equality for all, and I look forward to relying on her support as governor to deliver an agenda that builds on that work and makes progress for all New Yorkers,” the governor added.
Dukes’ endorsement came as state Attorney General Letitia James, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Congressman Tom Suozzi have discussed a possible bid for governor.
Hochul took office in August, following Cuomo’s resignation amid an ongoing sexual harassment investigation. She has already said she will be campaign for a full term as governor in 2022.