New York Gov. Kathy Hochul wore a black hijab while addressing Muslim community and religious leaders at an Islamic center event last Friday, according to video footage from the appearance.
The governor's visit came as the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people. The White Plains-based Islamic Center of New York hosted the event, where Hochul spoke about community partnerships and public safety initiatives.
What the Left Is Saying
Democratic supporters of the governor defended her appearance as a gesture of respect and interfaith outreach. A spokesperson for the Muslim American Society called the visit 'a meaningful recognition of New York's diverse communities' in a statement to local media.
Some progressive commentators noted that wearing religious attire as a sign of respect is common practice among political leaders visiting houses of worship. They pointed out that Hochul previously wore a hijab at the July 2025 funeral for slain NYPD officer Didarul Islam, who was killed in what authorities described as a targeted attack.
'When visiting communities of different faiths, it's customary to show respect,' said Dr. Khadija Hammoud, director of the New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. 'The governor's presence signals partnership with Muslim New Yorkers.'
What the Right Is Saying
Republican lawmakers criticized the appearance. Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) posted on social media: 'Democrats: Sexist Republicans are turning America into the Handmaid's Tale! Also Democrats:' alongside a photo of Hochul in the headscarf.
Conservative critics argued that the timing so close to the 9/11 anniversary was particularly tone-deaf. Former New York State Republican Party chair Stephen Loignon said in a statement: 'Twenty-five years after radical Islamic terrorists murdered Americans, our governor is wearing the religious symbol of those who carried out the attacks.'
Some Republican commentators noted that this marks at least the second time Hochul has worn hijab attire publicly. They argued that political figures should be consistent about displaying religious symbols or avoid doing so altogether.
What the Numbers Show
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, Muslim Americans represent approximately 1% of New York State's population of 19 million people. The Islamic Center of New York serves communities in Westchester County and surrounding areas.
A Quinnipiac University poll conducted earlier this year found that 67% of Americans say religion plays an important role in their political views. The same survey showed partisan divisions on questions about religious displays by elected officials.
The September 11 attacks killed 2,977 people at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Twenty-three New York City police officers were among those killed responding to the attacks.
The Bottom Line
Hochul's appearance has generated political controversy ahead of a sensitive commemorative period. Her office has not issued a statement explaining her decision to wear hijab at the event.
The governor's supporters argue that interfaith engagement with diverse communities represents standard gubernatorial practice, while critics contend the timing and religious symbolism were poorly chosen.
Both sides agree that the governor is expected to participate in September 11 memorial events across New York in the coming days. Her office has scheduled a public appearance at the 9/11 Memorial on Thursday.