Recently, Gov. Kathy Hochul addressed supporters of the “Patriotic Millionaires” with a pointed call for wealthy former New Yorkers to return from Florida to contribute to the state’s extensive social programs.
Despite this appeal, Hochul has previously dismissed those who criticize Democratic governance in New York, suggesting they relocate to Florida, and has taken minimal steps to alter the policies prompting many to move to states like Florida and Texas.
Hochul remarked, “I need people who are high net worth to support the generous social programs that we want to have in our state.” This statement was a jab at Democratic Socialists who believe New York does not require billionaires, and also at the wealthy “patriots” who support Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s calls for state tax increases to realize his New York City aspirations.
Hochul acknowledges the impact of high-income earners leaving New York on the state’s tax base.
However, this acknowledgment does not negate her earlier 2022 comments urging Republican critics to “jump on a bus and head down to Florida where you belong. OK? Get out of town. Because you don’t represent our values.” She reiterated similar sentiments in 2024, labeling New Yorkers who vote Republican as “anti-American.”
In echoing her predecessor, Hochul aligns with Andrew Cuomo, who in 2014 similarly claimed critics “have no place in the state of New York.”
These so-called “moderates” like Hochul and Cuomo often side with the radicals they claim to oppose, as they support or advance extreme energy policies, lenient crime laws, and extravagant welfare spending. These approaches frustrate ordinary citizens and are accompanied by high taxes and intrusive regulations that drive top earners and businesses out of the state.
This environment not only discourages new businesses from establishing themselves in New York but also encourages middle-class residents to leave due to Albany’s unrelenting demands.
Last week, Hochul transitioned from sarcasm to addressing how New York competes with states offering a lower tax burden on corporations and individuals. Yet, she merely avoids worsening the financial strain, contingent on her political aspirations and campaign funding needs.
New York requires leaders committed to reducing its tax burden and cutting the excessive spending that current taxes support.
