Story perspectives

Union Snubs Hochul for Re-Election Amid Labor Disputes

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The International Transport Workers Union, representing 60,000 workers in New York, will not endorse Governor Kathy Hochul for re-election amid labor disputes.
Union president John Samuelsen criticized Hochul for vetoing a bill requiring two-person train crews and increasing workers' healthcare costs.
Hochul defended the veto, citing potential annual costs of $10 million.
Bruce Blakeman, the Republican nominee, supported the union's stance.
Some transit advocates backed Hochul, citing cost efficiency and innovation.

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Story summary

The International Transport Workers Union, representing 60,000 workers in New York, will not endorse Governor Kathy Hochul for re-election amid labor disputes.
Union president John Samuelsen criticized Hochul for vetoing a bill requiring two-person train crews and increasing workers' healthcare costs.
Hochul defended the veto, citing potential annual costs of $10 million.
Bruce Blakeman, the Republican nominee, supported the union's stance.
Some transit advocates backed Hochul, citing cost efficiency and innovation.