Historic Ticket in New York: Gov. Kathy Hochul Selects Adrienne Adams as Running Mate, Marking First All-Female Major Party Slate

Progga News Desk:
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has selected former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams as her running mate as she seeks a second full term in office, creating what is believed to be the first all-female gubernatorial ticket from a major political party in New York State history.
The announcement, made Wednesday, February 4, positions Hochul and Adams as a moderate Democratic slate aimed at strengthening regional balance and consolidating support across key constituencies—particularly among Democratic voters in Southeast Queens.
Adams, 65, stepped down in December 2025 after serving four years as Speaker of the New York City Council. Political observers say her addition to the ticket is expected to bolster Hochul’s standing in New York City, where turnout and coalition-building are critical in statewide Democratic primaries.

Introducing Adams, Hochul described her as “a fighter,” adding that she is prepared to stand firm against former President Donald Trump and defend New York’s priorities.
In a statement, Hochul said, “Adrienne understands the meaning of hard work and how to stand up for those who need support the most. As Speaker of the New York City Council, she led efforts to protect families, make housing more affordable, invest in children, and stand up to anyone who seeks to harm our city.”
Adams said she is honored by the nomination and ready to bring her leadership experience to the statewide ticket.
Primary Contest Intensifies
The announcement ends months of speculation over Hochul’s choice of running mate. Sources had previously indicated she was considering several prominent Black and Hispanic leaders with strong ties to New York City.
If elected, Adams would become Hochul’s third lieutenant governor. Former Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin resigned in 2022 following a federal bribery charge; the case was later dropped after the death of a key witness.
In 2022, Hochul selected former U.S. Rep. Antonio Delgado as her running mate. Delgado has since broken with the governor and is now challenging her in the Democratic primary.
On Wednesday, Delgado announced that Buffalo nurse and Democratic Socialist India Walton will serve as his running mate. Walton previously ran for mayor of Buffalo in 2021 but was unsuccessful. The Delgado–Walton ticket is expected to seek party support at the upcoming New York State Democratic convention in Syracuse.
Delgado praised Walton’s “passion and fighting spirit,” saying she is driven by “a clear moral purpose and a bold vision for change.”
With competing Democratic tickets now formally in place, the upcoming gubernatorial race is shaping up to be more than a contest for executive power. It reflects deeper debates within the party over ideology, leadership style, and the future direction of New York State. Source: Hakikul Islam Khokon