Leaders congratulate Gov. Kathy Hochul

Leaders are congratulating Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Hochul became New York’s 57th governor and the state’s first female governor Tuesday. She was sworn in during a private ceremony at midnight.

Here is a list of statements NewsChannel 13 has received from various leaders and lawmakers.

Albany County Legislature’s Democratic leaders:

“Today is a historic day as we swear in the first woman to serve as Governor of the great State of New York. From the local government on up, the challenges we collectively face are daunting. However, Governor Hochul’s experience, and spirit, are exactly what we need right now to heal the past and build on our future together. The Albany County Legislature is very excited to work with Governor Hochul’s new administration to create progressive policies and craft innovative and responsible budgets for the good of all we serve.”

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy:

“While today marks a new chapter with the swearing in of Governor Kathy Hochul – making history as New York’s first female governor – we continue to face the same daunting challenges as before. COVID-19 and the Delta variant are still a threat to the health of our people and our full economic recovery. Parents are looking to the state for guidance as they prepare to send their children back to school. Tenants and landlords continue to wait for the release of desperately needed emergency rental assistance funds. And Tropical Storm Henri is just the most recent reminder of the damaging effects of climate change.

“Addressing these issues and so many others will be no easy task, but Governor Hochul has proven her commitment to the people of New York during her time in office and has the knowledge and experience needed to lead us through the storm. I look forward to continuing to work with her and her administration as I have over the last six years so that we can move New York forward.”

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara:

“Governor Kathy Hochul’s swearing in as the first female governor of New York marks a new era for our state. I’m hopeful that with our shared upstate roots we can work together to revive our economy, build back local businesses and provide families with the support they need and deserve.

The past year and a half has been a difficult and uncertain chapter in our state’s history and, unfortunately, we’re not out of the woods yet. With much work left to do and many challenges ahead, I’m optimistic that our new Governor will bring us a fresh perspective and a collaborative relationship with the Legislature to move our state forward. It’s imperative that we work together to restore our highest state office to one of honesty, integrity and respect.”

Senator Michelle Hinchey:

“This is a history-making moment — one that gives New York a renewed sense of possibility. True leadership is measured in an ability to bring people together and build a brighter, stronger future for all, and I have every confidence that Governor Hochul — a fellow upstate woman and New York’s first female governor — will lead our state forward with humility, compassion, and integrity. Upstate now has a true advocate at the helm and I look forward to working with her to build a New York we can be proud of and address the issues that matter most to our communities.”

Senator Daphne Jordan:

“Congratulations to New York State Governor Kathy Hochul on making history! I look forward to working with Governor Hochul to move our state forward. I’m praying for her success because I want our state – and all New Yorkers – to succeed. With her deep Upstate roots, I’m hopeful that Governor Hochul will make advancing an agenda that helps Upstate, and recognizes our unique challenges and opportunities, a top, bipartisan priority. We have much work to do: it’s time to write a positive, new chapter – and create a brighter future – for New York State.”