Mr. Cuomo and Ms. Hochul had no real working relationship; the two seldom appeared together in private strategy sessions or at public events. Ms. Hochul said she was eager to change that dynamic, envisioning a relationship similar to the one President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have established.
Im also looking for someone to be in the room, Ms. Hochul said last week, someone that I trust, and has good instincts, but also someone that I enjoy being with.
Mr. Bailey, 38, is considered a rising star in Bronx politics, and is said to be interested in the position, according to several sources. Mr. Bailey, who was elected chair of the Bronx Democratic Party last year, also has strong relationships in Albany; he counts Carl E. Heastie, the Assembly speaker, as a mentor.
Mr. Bailey spoke with members of Ms. Hochuls team last week who gauged his interest in being appointed lieutenant governor.
Mr. Benjamin, the senior assistant majority leader in the Senate, has represented most of Central Harlem since 2017. He ran for comptroller earlier this year in a citywide Democratic primary, placing fourth.
I would do whatever I can to help her do what she thought was necessary for the good of the state, Mr. Benjamin, 44, said in an interview. In my office, a picture of me and her was the first picture that I had with a statewide elected official. We talk frequently and its been a great relationship over the last few years.
Some of Mr. Bailey and Mr. Benjamins progressive credentials, especially on criminal justice reform, could make a ticket led by Ms. Hochul more palatable to left-wing voters, who play a crucial role in primaries.read more
Kathy Hochul Is Shopping for a Lieutenant Governor in New York City
