Governor Kathy Hochul faced blistering attacks from Congresswoman Elise Stefanik during a congressional hearing this week. The fiery exchange exposed deep divisions over New York’s sanctuary policies, with Stefanik accusing Hochul of prioritizing illegal immigrants over law-abiding citizens. The clash offered a preview of a potential 2026 gubernatorial showdown.
Stefanik hammered Hochul over horrific crimes committed by undocumented migrants, including a woman burned alive while sleeping on the subway. She blasted Hochul for not knowing the names of violent offenders protected by New York’s sanctuary policies. “Burning people alive – that’s Kathy Hochul’s New York,” Stefanik declared during the hearing.
The governor tried defending her record, claiming New York cooperates with federal immigration officials. But Stefanik repeatedly talked over her, shouting: “You’re shielding illegals!” Hochul’s weak responses drew criticism from conservatives who say she cares more about political correctness than public safety.
This isn’t just about one hearing – it’s about a pattern of failure. Rapes, molestations, and brutal attacks keep happening because New York rewards lawbreakers. While regular families worry about safe streets, Hochul protects criminals with taxpayer-funded shelters and legal defenses.
Stefanik stood strong for victims’ families ignored by Albany elites. She called out the governor’s heartless disregard for Americans harmed by open borders. Meanwhile, radical Democrats like Attorney General Letitia James harass police who try enforcing immigration laws.
The confrontation shows a clear choice for 2026. Stefanik fights for law enforcement and secure borders. Hochul sides with activists who want to defund police and erase national sovereignty. New Yorkers deserve leaders who put them first – not criminals sneaking across the border.
This hearing proved Stefanik’s readiness to take back Albany from soft-on-crime politicians. Her passionate defense of public safety contrasts sharply with Hochul’s limp excuses. Voters tired of chaos see Stefanik as the strong leader needed to restore order.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Every day Hochul remains in office, more innocent lives get destroyed by her reckless policies. Patriots across New York are rallying behind leaders like Stefanik who value American lives over illegal alien protections. The fight to save our state has begun.