Hochul, NY’s 1st female governor, inherits vast challenges

Hochul, NY’s 1st female governor, inherits vast challenges

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Kathy Hochul became the first female governor of New York on Tuesday, inheriting immense challenges as she takes over an administration facing criticism for inaction during Andrew Cuomo’s distracted final months in office. The Democrat and former member of Congress from Western New York took the oath of office just after midnight in a brief, private event overseen by the state’s chief judge, Janet DiFiore. A ceremonial swearing-in was planned Tuesday morning at the New York State Capitol, with more pomp than the brief, legally required event during the night. Hochul planned a public address at 3 p.m.

Photo: August 24, 2021 – Albany, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul is sworn-in as New York State’s 57th Governor by Chief Judge Janet DiFiore during a midnight ceremony at the New York State Capitol. First Gentleman Bill Hochul holds the Bible. (Mike Groll/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)