Gov. Kathy Hochul Sparks Controversy at Buffalo Church Event
*Somebody needs to ask New York Governor Kathy Hochul how her foot tastes. That’s because she definitely put her foot in her mouth with comments made during a Black church service in Buffalo (NY), this past Sunday (09-07-25). Speaking at True Bethel Baptist Church, she addressed the state’s upcoming inflation rebate checks.
While promoting the $250 million relief plan, Hochul joked, “Don’t spend it all in one day. Don’t stop by the liquor store on the way home.”
The line, meant to be funny, wasn’t and was captured on video (below) and quickly went viral online.
This is not the first time Governor Hochul has demeaned Black communities with her words. Last year, she claimed young Black kids in the Bronx didn’t even know what the word ‘computer’ was. Now, from the pulpit of a predominantly Black church, she warns families not to spend… pic.twitter.com/el5t15Tq7m
— Antonio Delgado (@DelgadoforNY) September 9, 2025
Scroll to continue reading
Critics Say Hochul’s Joke Reinforces Harmful Stereotypes
The joke landed poorly among many viewers, who saw it as racially insensitive given the predominantly Black audience. Critics say it played into harmful stereotypes about how Black communities manage money.
Several political figures and social media users called it a “dog whistle,” accusing Hochul of disrespecting the very community she was trying to help. The church setting only intensified the public backlash.
Elise Stefanik and Conservatives Slam Hochul’s Remarks
House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik issued a scathing statement on September 8, calling it a “pattern of insensitivity.” She pointed to similar comments Hochul made earlier in 2025 about Black children in Brooklyn.
Conservative media and political groups quickly seized on the story. Breitbart published a headline accusing Hochul of racial pandering, and #HochulLiquorStore trended on X (formerly Twitter).
Supporters Say Joke Was Misunderstood and Taken Out of Context
Some churchgoers and community leaders defended Hochul, saying the comment was made in jest and not meant to offend. A spokesperson for Hochul said she was “encouraging responsible spending.”
Progressive groups like the NAACP’s New York branch called for an apology but also urged people to view the remark in the full context of her speech about economic aid.
About the Inflation Rebate Checks Program in New York
The controversial remark was part of a broader announcement about inflation relief. The program provides $300–$500 to eligible households earning under $150,000 annually.
Payments will go out in late September 2025 via direct deposit or mailed checks. The rebates come from a $3.5 billion state surplus, targeting families in high-cost urban areas.
Kathy Hochul’s Political Future May Be Affected
This incident adds to concerns about Hochul’s standing with Black voters ahead of the 2026 midterms. Her approval rating among Black voters was already dipping, standing at 45% before the event.
Critics say the governor’s tone often feels paternalistic, while others argue these moments are exaggerated by her political opponents for attention and headlines.
By the way, her comment at the church was not the first time Governor Hochul has demeaned Black communities with her words. Last year, she claimed young Black kids in the Bronx didn’t even know what the word ‘computer’ was. Watch below.
Social Media Outrage and Trending Hashtags
Reaction on X was swift. Hashtags like #RacistDemocrats and #HochulLiquorStore dominated the trending list. Conservative voices questioned the Democratic Party’s relationship with Black voters.
One viral post by @WaltHayes258581 got over 19 million views in just hours. Many posts shared the full video clip and called for an apology or even resignation.
Hochul’s Record on Equity and Community Programs
Despite the backlash, Hochul has a track record of pushing equity-based policies. Her administration expanded affordable housing and passed bills aimed at closing racial wealth gaps.
Her supporters argue that one misstep shouldn’t define her leadership, especially when paired with concrete action that benefits underserved communities.
Why This Story Matters to New York Voters
With trust in political leaders already fragile, moments like these can impact public perception deeply. Voters are watching how leaders speak—and who they speak to—with growing sensitivity.
This story is more than just a viral moment. It’s a reminder that tone, timing, and context matter, especially when delivering aid to historically marginalized communities.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Grisly Discovery in Rapper D4vd’s Tesla Sparks Homicide Investigation in Hollywood
We Publish Breaking News 24/7. Don’t Miss Out! Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
