400+ Faith Leaders Endorse Governor Kathy Hochul for a Full Term
NEW YORK – More than 400 faith leaders today announced their endorsement of Governor Kathy Hochul in what is the largest faith-based coalition to endorse a gubernatorial candidate in New York State history.
“I’m humbled and honored to receive the overwhelming support from hundreds of distinguished faith leaders who’ve been with us since day one. Our faith communities have always been a source of strength and solidarity that New Yorkers can depend on, especially during our most trying times,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “As governor, my administration will continue to partner with faith leaders throughout our State to give every family a fair shot and eliminate barriers that still prevent too many of our communities from reaching their full potential.”
Bishop Ebony Kirkland, Church of the Living God
“Governor Hochul is the epitome of a leader who has dedicated her life’s work to public service. From her local county clerk’s office and the halls of Congress to the highest seat in New York’s executive branch, she has led with the kind of tenacity and boldness we need in New York. As the first woman to hold this office, Governor Hochul is paving the way for other trailblazers looking to make their own mark in government, business, community or church. We know to whom much is given, much will be required. I’m confident she will continue to provide a transparent government; one that prioritizes common sense laws to protect families, jobs, education, tax relief, small businesses, and our God-given environment that’s seen a decline from man-made actions. That is why I am supporting Governor Hochul’s candidacy for a full term.”
Bishop Fernando Rodriguez, President of the Latin/African American Chaplain Association
“Since taking office, Governor Hochul has prioritized issues that matter to our congregations and communities. Her bold moves to keep us all safe by combating COVID-19 with free booster doses and vaccines for children ages 5-17, as well as providing additional SNAP benefits to address food insecurity during these unprecedented times, are what we need to move us forward.”
Imam Mohammed Sherzad, Dar Al Taqwa Islamic Center
“Governor Hochul has demonstrated support for non-violence and for religious and cultural tolerance by speaking out against those who have defaced structures in New York with symbols of hate. We know that if it affects one religion, it affects all. She has spoken out against attacks around the world such as the one in Afghanistan at the Hamid Karzai International Airport last year, and most recently, in Ukraine. Under her watch, violence will not be tolerated. In her Executive Budget, Governor Hochul includes $224 million to fund initiatives that will strengthen gun violence prevention efforts of law enforcement and community-based organizations in New York. We need to keep her in the state Capitol to continue what she’s started.”
Rabbi Baruch Rothman, Yeshiva Ateres Shimon
“Governor Hochul is the right person to lead this state and a leader who truly listens to the concerns of our community. I’m endorsing Governor Hochul because she shares our Jewish values of promoting equality and civil rights as well as standing up for what is right. I look forward to working with Governor Hochul to promote the ideals of the Jewish community in the years to come.”
Reverend Dr. Carl Washington, Jr., President of the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention
“In and outside the church, we know many are called, but few are chosen. Governor Hochul is my choice for governor because she understands the growing need for available childcare for student parents trying to advance in life and the important role it plays in our economic recovery. The state’s multimillion dollar initiative to expand and create high-quality childcare centers across all SUNY campuses and train childcare professionals is a vision I can get behind. Also, Governor Hochul has included the highest level of state aid ever in the FY 2023 Executive Budget, an investment that would allocate state funds equitably to all school districts, provide resources to SUNY and CUNY to hire more faculty, and expand TAP to part-time students.”
Senior Pastor Darius G. Pridgen, True Bethel Baptist Church
“I appreciate the friendship that Governor Hochul and myself have developed over the years. During the toughest time for faith-based institutions during the pandemic, Governor Hochul took the time to listen and become an advocate for us. I am confident that she will continue to be a fighter for all New Yorkers, no matter race, color, creed, or religion. That’s why I’m supporting Governor Kathy Hochul for a full term.”