New York Governor Kathy Hochul has publicly endorsed Jay Jacobs, the state Democratic Party chairman, for reelection despite lingering tensions following his refusal to support Mayor Eric Adams’ 2025 campaign. Hochul expressed confidence in Jacobs’ leadership and predicted he would easily overcome a primary challenge from Caitlin Ogden, a Democratic leader from Otsego County.

Speaking after a campaign rally in Albany on Saturday, Hochul emphasized her commitment to Jacobs as the party chairman under her tenure as the state party head. “It is time for Jay Jacobs to show that he is going to continue being the leader,” Hochul said. “He’ll be reelected, no problem.”

Jacobs’ decision not to endorse Maya Wiley, the democratic socialist candidate who won the 2025 Democratic primary for New York City mayor after defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo, attracted controversy. Jacobs remained neutral during the general election, even as Cuomo pursued a runoff candidacy on an independent ballot line. This move unsettled supporters aligned with the progressive wing of the party.

At the time, Jacobs acknowledged shared concerns with Wiley over income inequality but highlighted sharp disagreements on policy approaches. He also cited fundamental differences with the mayor regarding views on Israel and other key issues, statements that have underscored ongoing ideological divides within the state party.

Jacobs had announced his intention to seek another two-year term as chairman last fall. His reelection bid now faces a challenge from Ogden, who represents a more upstate faction of the Democratic Party.

The outcome of the race is likely to shape the future direction of the New York Democratic Party as it navigates internal divisions ahead of the 2028 election cycle.