New York Governor Kathy Hochul and rapper Nicki Minaj exchanged sharp criticism on Wednesday, injecting a celebrity-fueled clash into the final days of the state’s gubernatorial campaign.
Social Media Attack Targets Incumbent’s Character
The back-and-forth erupted after Minaj, who has emerged as an outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump and Republican candidates, took to social media to launch a scathing attack against the incumbent governor. In a lengthy online post, the musician targeted Hochul’s political standing and character.
"Kathy Hochul is an evil woman. The Democratic Party should forfeit her seat because even if she wins, she will be of great consequence to them. Downward spiral for her. She will not escape God's wrath. She did not denounce evil when she had the chance," Minaj wrote.
A Shift in Political Alignment
Minaj further accused the governor of keeping "horrible company" and failing to condemn wrongdoing. The exchange comes on the heels of Minaj appearing alongside Trump at a political rally in Michigan earlier in the week, where she publicly urged young voters to cast their ballots red in the upcoming election.
This political alignment is a change from Minaj's previous endorsement of Hochul during her 2018 campaign for lieutenant governor.
Governor Fires Back From Albany
Asked about the remarks during a campaign stop in Albany on Wednesday, Hochul fired back directly at the artist.
"I think she should ought to get outside and get offline a little more. And stop going to Trump rallies because it's poisoning your mind," Hochul said.
Final Days on the Campaign Trail
The public feud unfolds as Hochul and her Republican challenger, Bruce Blakeman, make their final push toward Election Day. Recent polling indicates that Hochul maintains a double-digit lead in the race, though both campaigns are working aggressively to mobilize voters.
While Hochul spent Wednesday campaigning in Albany, Blakeman maintained a statewide tour focused on energizing the Republican base ahead of the vote.
