Context:

Antonio Delgado, New York's lieutenant governor, has announced his candidacy to challenge Governor Kathy Hochul in the upcoming Democratic primary, citing a lack of bold and decisive leadership during her tenure. Delgado, who previously served in Congress representing the Hudson Valley, has been openly critical of Hochul, leading to a significant public rift between the two. Despite being considered a long shot due to Hochul's strong fundraising capabilities and Delgado's relative anonymity, he remains committed to his campaign focused on tackling issues like affordable housing and health care costs. Delgado's decision to run is unconventional, particularly as it is rare for a lieutenant governor to challenge a sitting governor, but he believes it reflects his dedication to the people of New York. The strained relationship between Delgado and Hochul reached a breaking point when Hochul stripped Delgado of his office space and responsibilities, highlighting the extent of their political discord.

Dive Deeper:

• Antonio Delgado, who was praised by Kathy Hochul for his campaign skills and ability to unite communities when appointed as her lieutenant governor in 2022, has decided to run against her in the Democratic primary, criticizing her leadership as lacking boldness and decisiveness.

• Delgado's campaign emphasizes the need for transformational leadership in New York, focusing on issues such as unaffordable housing, child care, and health care costs, and positioning himself as a champion for everyday New Yorkers.

• Despite being considered a long shot due to his lesser-known status and Hochul's robust fundraising history, Delgado's decision to run is fueled by his dissatisfaction with the current administration and his commitment to the electorate.

• The relationship between Delgado and Hochul began to deteriorate publicly when Delgado called for the resignation of NYC Mayor Eric Adams over federal corruption charges, a stance that Hochul did not support, leading to further estrangement and Delgado being stripped of his office and responsibilities.

• Delgado's campaign has gained attention for its unconventional nature, particularly since it is uncommon for a lieutenant governor to challenge a sitting governor, and it has sparked discussions about the Democratic Party's focus on candidates who can connect with a younger, more diverse voter base.

• Delgado, a former hip-hop artist, Rhodes Scholar, and Harvard Law School graduate, has been actively engaging with communities across New York, discussing his plans to expand public health care, create universal child care, raise the minimum wage, and reform housing finance.

• Some political figures, like Representative Pat Ryan, have expressed support for Hochul, while others, like Kamal Johnson, acknowledge Delgado's argument for change, suggesting a need for accountability and reflection within the Democratic leadership in New York.