'Feminist icon, shame on her'; Governor Hochul wears hijab during Islamic event in New York, faces backlash

NEW YORK: Governor Kathy Hochul of New York State came under criticism for her decision to wear a hijab while attending an event with Muslim leaders in the city. Hochul’s political opponents called her decision ill-timed and shrewd at a time when the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks is around the corner.

While attending an event at the Islamic Centre of New York, addressing religious and community leaders. Hochul sported a black scarf covering her head. This didn’t bode well with the conservative sections or others, considering her staunch feminist stances on other issues.

“‘Feminist icon’ NY Governor Hochul just put on a hijab for Muslim men,” popular account End Wokeness wrote on X.

"We are just TWELVE DAYS out till the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and New York Governor Kathy Hochul is wearing a hijab. SHAME ON HER.” Another comment that appeared on social media.

Hochul is no stranger to similar controversies; In July 2025, she came wearing a scarf covering her head to attend the funeral of NYPD Detective Didarul Islam, a Muslim officer killed in a Midtown Manhattan mass shooting.

Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz back then heavily admonished Hochul for her attempt to woo muslims and asked her not to comment on the rights of women in New York City, calling it none of her concern.