Gov. Hochul backs Zohran Mamdani’s controversial ‘how to’ video on thwarting ICE

Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday she had “no problem” with Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s instructional video on how illegal migrants in New York City can “stand up” to federal immigration authorities.

“Everybody in this state should know their rights for themselves, their families, or for their neighbors, and their fellow worshippers in places of worship,” Hochul told reporters at an unrelated event.

“So no, everybody should know these rights, because they’re being trampled on right now,” she said.

“I have no problem with the mayor-elect using this platform to let people know the rights they have in this great country.”

Mamdani earned scorn from conservative critics for posting a social media video Sunday in which he said: “we can all stand up to ICE if you know your rights.”

The democratic socialist cited a recent protest in Lower Manhattan where demonstrators surrounded the garage of a government building and prevented federal agents from carrying out an apparent raid on Nov. 29.

The chaotic scene led to NYPD officers clashing with some of the more than 150 protesters blocking access to the garage, leading to several arrests.

“Last weekend, ICE attempted to raid Canal Street and detain our immigrant neighbors,” Mamdani said. “As mayor, I’ll protect the rights of every single New Yorker. And that includes the more than 3 million immigrants who call this city their home.”