Hochul takes the stage post promotion

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul spoke for the first time since beginning the transition to governor. Photo via Mike Groll/Office of the Governor

By Rachel Vick

Lieutenant Gov. Kathy Hochul took to the podium for the first time since Gov. Andrew Cuomo resigned and gave New Yorkers the first taste of their first leading lady Wednesday.

She said that while the current administration was the one to push for the 14-day overlap to ensure a smooth transition, she has been ready for the role since first being appointed to the support position.

“I want people to know I am ready for this,” Hochul said. “While it was not expected, it is a day for which I am prepared.”

“[Over the next two weeks] I’ll do what I have always done; travel the state to meet New Yorkers and assure them that I have their backs.”

Throughout the briefing Hochul reminded listeners that she was not governor yet, but promised to present her plan once officially sworn in as the 57th governor of the state.

She said she will continue to meet with local leaders in the state legislature and surrounding states and members of the current administration over the next two weeks but was certain that there would be turnover in top staff as she builds her cabinet.

Hochul also alluded to the importance of diversity in representation as she chooses someone to fill the lieutenant position.

“My style is to listen first then take decisive action,” she said. “No one will describe my [office] as a toxic work environment.”

She also acknowledged challenges of the past year and the uncertainty moving forward, but said that she remains confident in the leadership and residents throughout New York to take the steps necessary to fully recover from the pandemic.

“Sometimes [it] doesn’t feel like it gets any easier...but I know New Yorkers — they are hardwired to persevere and prevail,” Hochul said. “I will fight like hell for you every single day, like I always have and always will.”