Bruce Blakeman Criticizes Governor Hochul on Public Safety

Republican New York gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman criticized Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul during his campaign on the New York City subway. He labeled her as a “pro-criminal” governor due to rising concerns about subway safety.

Blakeman, who serves as Nassau County executive and was once a commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, campaigned in the subway system to address commuter safety concerns. He stated that commuters do not feel safe and called for increased safety measures.

“I have not heard from one person that it’s safer on the subways and public transportation in New York,” Blakeman expressed during the subway ride. “I’ve heard just the opposite. Everybody says they feel less safe.”

Blakeman proposed solutions such as hiring more police and conductors, improving subway cleanliness, and assisting those with mental health issues. He specifically called on Governor Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to address these issues.

During his campaign, Blakeman highlighted the increase in subway crime under the leadership of Hochul and Mamdani. He outlined his commitment to public safety, arguing it is essential for encouraging public transportation use.

Blakeman criticized the congestion pricing tax, labeling it a burden on the middle class. He also pointed to the reduction of train conductors as a negative impact on commuter safety.

“Police are very important, but I think people feel very comfortable and very safe when they see a conductor,” he said. “I want to increase the numbers so that people feel safe.”

Hochul previously vetoed a bill requiring more conductors on trains, stating it would hinder modernization efforts and incur significant costs. Blakeman remains committed to reversing these policies.

He criticized Hochul for endorsing policies like cashless bail and other reforms which he claims have compromised safety. These include Raise the Age, the HALT Act, and the Clean Slate law.

The campaign highlights a significant debate over safety on public transport and the focus on policy adaptations to improve safety for New Yorkers.