Gubernatorial Feud: Hochul retorts to Minaj's 'evil' accusation
The New York governor told the rapper to get offline after a social media attack during the final week of the campaign.
By Larissa Shah ·
New York's gubernatorial race entered its final stretch with a public dispute between incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul and rapper Nicki Minaj. The conflict erupted Wednesday as the campaign reached its closing days.
Minaj, who has aligned herself with President Donald Trump and Republican candidates, launched the criticism via social media. She called Hochul an "evil woman" and argued the Democratic Party should forfeit the seat. The post claimed that even a victory would harm the party and that Hochul failed to denounce evil when given the opportunity.
The musician expanded her critique in a follow-up post, accusing Hochul of keeping "horrible company." Minaj also urged young voters to "vote red," a stance that marks a shift from her 2018 endorsement of Hochul for lieutenant governor.
Hochul responded during a campaign stop in Albany. She suggested Minaj spend more time outside and less time online. The governor also linked the criticism to Minaj's recent appearance with Trump at a rally in Michigan, stating that attending such events was "poisoning your mind."
The exchange occurs while Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman compete for the final undecided voters. Recent polling indicates Hochul holds a double-digit lead in the race. Blakeman is currently touring the state to energize the Republican base ahead of the election.
