Kathy Hochul slammed for criticizing ICE amid DHS aid offer during New York blizzard

ALBANY, NEW YORK: Gov Kathy Hochul has faced intense criticism from netizens and social media commentators over her remarks regarding federal assistance offered during a major winter storm.

The controversy centers on comments Hochul made about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the context of an offer of federal help from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) during the blizzard that struck the state.

Kathy Hochul criticized of ICE as DHS offers blizzard assistance

As a significant winter blizzard swept through the city, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem offered federal assistance, including support that would ordinarily come through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Rather than simply confirming acceptance of the help, Hochul used the opportunity to pivot toward immigration policy, specifically criticizing ICE. Hochul stated, “Secretary Noem offered assistance to New York ahead of the impending snowstorm.”

She went on to say, “The fastest way to help is for ICE to back off so people feel safe accessing warming centers, shelters, hospitals, and houses of worship.” These remarks quickly became the focal point of criticism across political circles.

Her remarks come amid nationwide protests against immigration enforcement operations and tactics employed by ICE and Border Patrol under the Trump administration.

In response to the criticism, a source familiar with the situation told Fox News that Hochul did not ultimately reject federal assistance and that all storm-related requests from local governments were supported by the city.

Hochul previously also made public remarks targeting federal immigration figures. She posted that Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino should be fired and that Noem should resign, accusing her of forfeiting her right to lead and suggesting Bovino also acted as if he was “above the law.”

When asked about handling snowstorms, Hochul even injected a lighter note, saying that as a “governor from Buffalo” she knows how to handle heavy snowfall. She offered a bit of snow-shoveling advice, warning against lifting large piles at once due to the risk of heart attack.

Social media backlash over Kathy Hochul remarks

Hochul’s comments sparked immediate backlash over her criticism of ICE amid federal assistance offer. One user said, "Too bad! ICE has work to do. Joe Biden left the border open for 4 years."

Another user said, "Kathy Hochul is prioritizing politics over her constituents and people are already dying."

One commenter expressed strong support for ICE, "As a New Yorker I feel much safer with ICE present. In fact I have their number in my favorites so I could call quickly every time I see illegals. So stop playing politics. You are a disgrace."

Critics on social media also urged Hochul to prioritize public safety over politics, saying, "Please don’t play politics with people’s lives."

Another netizen criticized her for politicizing the crisis, "Never pass up an opportunity to politicize the well being of New Yorkers then run to social media to pat yourself on the back for doing so."

One user warned Hochul about the consequences of her actions, stating, "Your shameful political posturing is costing lives."

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.