Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul

“Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez is a trailblazer whose leadership has opened doors for generations of New Yorkers. As the first Puerto Rican woman elected to Congress, she has never forgotten where she came from, and she has never stopped fighting for the people she serves.

“For more than three decades, she has led with unshakable purpose and delivered meaningful progress for women, veterans, immigrants and communities too often left behind.

“We became friends when I served with her in Congress, and I’ve continued to seek her wisdom as Governor. I thank her for her service and wish her nothing but the very best in this next chapter. She will continue making a difference in everything she does.”