Rep. Elise Stefanik is doubling down on her criticism of New York’s cashless bail laws and Democratic leadership, calling out both Governor Kathy Hochul and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani during a Monday appearance on Fox News’ Hannity.
The Saratoga County Republican blasted what she described as the “decay” of New York under single-party rule, citing rising crime, higher taxes, and controversial policies supported by progressive lawmakers.
“This has happened on [Hochul’s] watch,” Stefanik said of the state’s bail reform measures, which eliminated cash bail for many nonviolent offenses. She added that she plans to introduce legislation to roll back those reforms, which she believes have fueled a crime crisis across the state.
Criticism of Mamdani and Hochul
Stefanik also targeted Queens Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, labeling him “a true Marxist and communist” and accusing him of hypocrisy for living in a rent-stabilized apartment while pushing to defund the police.
She criticized Hochul for not condemning Mamdani’s past statements and policies, including support for abolishing ICE and allocating state funds to gender-affirming care.
“This is today’s Democrat Party,” Stefanik said. “It has decayed.”
2026 governor’s race?
While Stefanik stopped short of announcing a campaign for governor, she hinted at a potential run, saying a decision would come after the November elections.
“We need to unify the state,” she said, adding that even Democrats and independents are frustrated with the current direction of New York. “We have one opportunity to save our state.”
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