Internet grills Kathy Hochul over 'bizarre' claim that Black children in Bronx don't know what 'computer' means

WASHINGTON, DC: Governor Kathy Hochul has come under fire from Bronx politicians for stating that some black children in the borough don’t know what the word "computer" means, according to the New York Post.

At an on-stage event on May 6 in California Hochul made a mistake in her attempt to articulate her desire to develop a diverse workforce in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence.

Kathy Hochul says black children in Bronx don’t know what ‘computer’ means

Hochul said, "Right now we have, you know, young black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is. They don’t know, they don’t know these things. And I want the world opened up to all of them."

Lawmakers from the Bronx and all five boroughs swiftly attacked Hochul for her mistake, which she subsequently stated she regretted.

Assemblywoman Karines Reyes (D-Bronx) wrote on X, "Deeply disturbed by @GovKathyHochul’s recent remarks and the underlying perception that she has of Black & brown children from the BX. Our children are bright, brilliant, extremely capable, and more than deserving of any opportunities that are extended to other kids. Do better."

Assemblyman John Zaccaro (D-Bronx) wrote in a statement, "Our children, far from being underestimated, are the epitome of brilliance, resilience, and untapped potential. They are not only capable but deserving of every opportunity that their counterparts are offered. It’s disheartening to witness such a portrayal that undermines their abilities and aspirations."

Similarly, Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo (D-Bronx) said, "I would invite Governor Hochul to visit us in The Bronx to experience firsthand the intelligence, resilience, and joy that radiate from Bronx children and residents each day."

In her speech, Hochul mostly addressed her recently approved $400 million Empire AI plan, which is included in the state budget, at the Milken Institute Global Conference on Monday.

Hochul later informed the New York Post in a statement, "I misspoke and I regret it. Of course Black children in the Bronx know what computers are — the problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI. That’s why I’ve been focused on increasing economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration."

Internet says 'Governor Botox is so embarrassing'

Many people on the internet took jibes at Kathy Hochul as she stated that some black children in the borough don’t know what the word 'computer' means.

A user posted on social media platform X, "Governor Botox is so embarrassing" while one added, "People in positions of power underestimating the power of the people."

A user also wrote, "We have young black kid that can teach Kathy how to build a computer with their eyes closed" whereas one mentioned, "Between this and the fact she is ok with the Bronx getting more traffic from congestion pricing, it is obvious Hochul doesn't care one bit about the Bronx."

A person also stated, "Hochul needs to Gochul. Someone has to primary her" while one added, "Anyone from Buffalo could tell you this is exactly what to expect someone from Hamburg to think about inner cities."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.