Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., is contemplating a potential run for New York governor, a move that has garnered attention due to his recent criticisms of leaders within his own party. Torres has been vocal in his opposition to progressive criminal justice policies in the state and has specifically called out Gov. Kathy Hochul for her management of New York.
One of Torres' notable criticisms of Hochul was her alleged use of coded stereotyping, where she claimed that young black Bronxites were unfamiliar with the word 'computer.' Torres accused Hochul of lacking understanding of communities of color and effective governance.
In addition, Torres was one of the first Democrats to attribute Vice President Kamala Harris' loss to President-elect Trump to the progressive left, stating that the far left had alienated significant portions of minority groups from the Democratic Party.
When asked about his potential gubernatorial bid, Torres' spokesperson mentioned that he is considering the option and intends to make a final decision by mid-2025. Torres himself has criticized New York City Mayor Eric Adams for employing a staffer accused of tearing down posters related to Israelis held hostage by Hamas.
Furthermore, Torres accused both Adams and Hochul of being 'complicit' in a recent stabbing spree that resulted in the deaths of three New Yorkers. He also expressed dissatisfaction with New York's business policies, citing regulations that hinder business operations and development.
Rep. Nick Langworthy, R-N.Y., acknowledged Torres' criticisms of Hochul but viewed them as aligned with Republican concerns about dysfunction in Albany. Langworthy dismissed Torres' critiques of progressivism as mere posturing in response to Hochul's perceived failures and the success of Trump's platform.
Torres, who was previously a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, left the group earlier this year due to disagreements regarding Israel. In response to Torres' criticisms, Hochul emphasized the importance of focusing on current responsibilities rather than future elections.
As Torres contemplates a potential gubernatorial bid, his criticisms of Democratic leaders continue to draw attention and speculation about the upcoming political landscape in New York.
