Gov. Kathy Hochul has endorsed Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor, giving the Democratic nominee one of the most significant endorsements to date.

Writing in the New York Times’ opinion section Sunday, Hochul said that while she and Mamdani diverged on some issues, they came together on the importance of addressing the affordability crisis in the city and across the state.

On Monday, during a press conference where she made a public safety announcement, the Democrat told reporters why she was throwing her support behind the 33-year-old self-described democratic socialist.

“I disagree with many statements, and I've said that. But also, I believe that we need someone who's going to be open-minded and optimistic and have an attitude, a can-do attitude that I share about knowing that the city's best days still do lie ahead,” Hochul said.

The stunning success of Mamdani in the race for New York City mayor has exposed divisions within the Democratic Party as it struggles to repair its brand more than half a year into Donald Trump’s presidency.

Hochul’s endorsement is the latest sign that Democratic leaders who had been skeptical of Mamdani’s liberal views are beginning to consolidate around him.

Mamdani thanked Hochul for the boost, saying it’s a sign “our movement is growing stronger.”