Republican candidate for New York governor Bruce Blakeman outlined his policy priorities and sharply criticized incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul in a recent interview, characterizing her administration as ineffective and aligned with far-left interests. Blakeman, who currently serves as Nassau County executive, pledged to reverse what he described as damaging left-wing policies and address issues such as high taxes, elevated utility costs, and public safety concerns.

During the interview, Blakeman dismissed Hochul’s frequent references to former President Donald Trump in campaign debates, suggesting that the governor uses Trump’s unpopularity in the state to deflect criticism from her own record. Blakeman emphasized his independence, noting his past willingness to break from party lines and asserting that his decisions will be based on what he deems best for New Yorkers. He also highlighted his credentials, pointing to his tax-cutting record, multiple budget surpluses, and recognitions tied to public safety in Nassau County.

A key focus of Blakeman’s campaign is the reduction of New York’s high utility bills, which he claims are among the highest nationwide. He proposed eliminating what he called the “green energy scam” and increasing natural gas extraction and energy supply as a means to lower costs. He cited Pennsylvania as an example, noting that the state’s lack of similar green energy mandates correlates with significantly lower utility bills.

Blakeman criticized Hochul as an extremist, challenging her characterization of herself as a moderate Democrat and accusing her of supporting controversial figures such as Zorhan Mamdani, whom he described as antisemitic and anti-American. He also highlighted the governor’s association with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as evidence of a leftward shift. Blakeman described Hochul as a “useful tool” for the socialist wing of her party and suggested she is influenced by Mamdani.

Addressing the ongoing migration of residents from New York to other states, Blakeman credited his governance in Nassau County for attracting people through lower taxes and enhanced safety. He contrasted this with what he called a “national embarrassment” of poor economic outlook for New York under Hochul’s leadership.

Blakeman also discussed his plans to ban transgender students from girls’ bathrooms and locker rooms, abolish congestion pricing, and repeal cashless bail laws. He acknowledged that these measures would require legislative support, noting the current Democratic majorities in the state Senate and Assembly. However, he expressed confidence that his party would gain seats in the upcoming elections and that the governor’s office maintains significant influence over the legislature.

In addition to policy issues, Blakeman briefly mentioned a behind-the-scenes initiative to bring the New York Jets football team back to Long Island, although details on that plan were not elaborated.