New York Governor Kathy Hochul is facing a wave of criticism after appearing in a hijab and quoting the Quran during a recent NYPD officer's funeral.
Her gesture, intended to show solidarity with Muslim communities, was seen by many as deeply inappropriate at a solemn event meant to honor a fallen police officer. Critics argued that her appearance politicized the ceremony and undermined the values and traditions of the department and the officer’s family.
Opponents from both law enforcement and public circles have accused Hochul of pandering for political points rather than showing genuine respect. “This was a time to honor a hero, not to make a religious or cultural statement,” one former NYPD officer said.
The governor has not responded directly to the backlash, but the incident has further widened the gap between her administration and many in the law enforcement community.